9.14.10

We want you all to know that Bowen is doing well on life support today. Sarah and I are still processing what we saw and felt last night and aren’t able to put it into words at this point. We are going to spend some time at Bowen’s bedside today and then spend some much needed quality time with our girls. Please know that all your prayers and messages have been a great support to us. We are so grateful for each one of you. We’ll keep you posted on his progress over the next couple days.

Cassie N

Bonnie Langmeyer

Your special family is in my thoughts and prayers today. May God bless you all even during this most unimaginable time. I cannot imagine what you must be going through, but I trust that God has a plan…even in this.

Donna Hunsinger

Beth

I’m so glad to hear this. When I heard what had happened this morning on KLOVE, I started praying. When I talked to my husband, he started praying. We love you guys and you are all in our thoughts and prayers! I praise God for the role that your music plays in my life. You are both mighty workers for God and God will remember you, just like He did Hannah in the Bible. We love you and Baby Bowen. We will continue to pray!

Ruth

Judy

My daughter told me about your little Bowen when she was here this weekend. I have been praying for him. I just wanted you to know there is a website for Little Mended Hearts. A site for young children with heart problems of all kinds. http://www.mendedhearts.org should get you there and then see how to follow up with Little Mended Hearts. They will be able to let you know who to call in the area you are in right now. A wonderful support group.

Yes, Mended Little Hearts is a fabulous support to many families who have been or are going through what you are going through. My family and I helped start ours in the Dayton area after our infant son had his heart surgeries. I pray you find the support you need. Other great organizations are It’s My Heart and Saving Little Hearts. I know various ones are located throughout Ohio. But God is our Ultimate Comforter and He sees us at our worst and loves us with HIS best. We will continue praying for your family.

Andrea

I just heard about your story on the radio. I am praying for your son and your family. I pray that Bowen has a complete and fast recovery from his surgery. May our God show Himself mighty through this, that He may receive all the glory, honor and praise.

Deb C.

I can not tell you how touched I am by your story… I have called all my prayer warrior friends into action on behalf of your family. Please sing to baby Bowen as often as you can. The Word calls us to praise Him, even in the midst of our struggles. Music, particularly Christian music, has a healing power that many do not understand. This will not only help baby Bowen, but help you in searching for God’s face during this incredible trial and in interceding on for your son before our Holy Father! Your voice has helped so many of us heal and be blessed… We are ALL praying HARD!!!!! God bless you guys!

Carol Caldwell

I am a big fan of your music! I can’t believe you are going thru all this. My family’s prayers are with your family. I pray for God provision and protection over baby Bowen. What a precious little soul.

Diane Fisher

Amanda

I have been checking every hour to hopefully hear some good news! So glad to hear that Bowen is doing well. Will continue to pray for Bowen and your family until you have that precious gift from God at home safely. God Bless!

Edward Kent

Praise the father from whom all blessings flow…. I pray that you lean into his strength and power and let him lead you both and your family in these trying times. He is able and just to provide healing and provisions in these times. Our family will pray for you and yours.

Joye

Maggie

Praise God for continuing to do amazing things in Bowen’s life! He was a testament to an awesome God before he was even born and he’s continuing to show all of us just how great our God is. Way to go, Bowen! Praying for you and your girls and for Bowen’s continued healing. I can just see God’s mighty hand resting on the chest of your little boy. His healing hands are holding him, protecting him, and will never leave him. Thank you, Jesus, for the healing that you are doing in Bowen’s heart.

Judi

When our little Annalee was born, she had to have heart surgery. I remember we couldn’t hold her to love on her. All we could do was reach in to touch her. My husband took her little hand and wrapped it around one of his fingers and said, “Sweet Annie, hold on to Daddy, just hold on to Daddy. I’m right here.”
I questioned what God was doing and why we were taken on this path, but when my husband said those words to our baby, I realized that’s what God wanted from me. He was saying, “Judi, hold on to Daddy. I’m right here.” My lesson for that difficult time in our life. I was holding on to my Lord and still am!
Praying for you both as you hold on to God! Praying for your sweet baby as God is holding him!
Because of Him,
Judi

krissy

Praying for your family, may God give you the strength that is needed to bypass this little bump in the road. May God assist the physicians in helping your son. God loves your little boy and has many plans for him.

Angelia Durham

I just read about your prayer request on K-Love today. I was touched by the website that you and your wife have devoted to your precious son. I’m in prayer for your family today. I’m deeply touched by your sincere relationship with Jesus Christ and the acceptance of His headship in your lives. Even when we sometimes can’t understand what passes through His hand we have to trust and believe in His heart! Praying for you and your entire family.

Kelli Best

Bill and I will be praying for your family, Matt. Been a long time since Calvary days when we last saw you. WE have enjoyed watching what God has been doing in your life through your music and the blessings He has bestowed upon you. No one quite understands why these things happen, why our children suffer, or anyone for that matter. However, there is one acquainted with grief and sorrow and He is always near. May the peace that only the Holy Spirit can bring quiet your hearts and minds today.

Kris

We know that Jesus went to the cross for Bowens healing, I am thanking God for his healing power that
flows through Bowens entire body.
No evil will happen to Bowen neither shall any plague come near his dwelling. For the Lord has given His angels charge over him and they keep him in all his ways, and in his path is life and there is no death.
(Psalms 91:10-11; Proverbs 12:28)
I am praying for strength for you Matt and Sarah.

Amy

Praying for God’s will to be done. He is a selfish God and He is using Bowen for His will. Bowen’s story is reaching so many people and no matter how long he is on this earth he is a blessing. We’ve recently been through a similar situation with a good friend of ours and while their baby was on this earth he touched so many lives and his parents are able to share their faith because of his life. Praying for you guys and complete understanding through your incredible situation.

Sabrina

I want to say that I am praying for you. I know the heart ache you are going thru seeing your son in pain and also trying to trust and find faith in God. I was there 12 years ago with my son and then 2 yrs later with my little girl. I also believe that God is working in both you and Bowen to produce such beautiful songs that others need to hear when they can’t explain what they are feeling and thru Bowen’s healing others are being healed with your music. I will continue to pray for you and your family. God Bless and I know you know that God has his hand over you and baby Bowen.

Jennifer Perry

You are all in my heart and my prayers. I am so glad that Our God is bigger and able to help us through times like this…I know He is with you and He will be your strength every step of the way. You are all so very loved <3

Sarah, Matt & girls, I am praying so hard for your little darling! Keep the faith! You’re angel is a fighter and as long as he knows all the love surrounding him with you, your family, and all these people who are one in Jesus…we’re a pretty powerful bunch, don’t you think? I pray for your little Bowen, your girls and you! God Bless all of you!

Candi Acevedo

Praise God!!! Thank you Lord for this precious baby Bowen, he is such a blessing not only to his family but to us all. Thank you Lord for all you do. Thank you for the blessing upon him. i will continue to lift your family up in prayer. God bless

Saga Earlywine

He will so be in my prayers. I have a baby brother that was in the hospital for 6th months last year for a heart defect so i know it can be stressful but just continue to trust God. Once again my prayers are with bowen and your whole family! God bless you all >:}

Miale

God is always in control! Lean on HIM and HE will give you strength and confort! Our God is still in the miracle business! We are sending our thoughts, prayers, strength and love your way! Please try to rest in God’s presence.

Cathy Collinson

My husbands’ sister has a son that was born with another type of heart defect. First she was told he wouldn’t make t to 5, then every couple of years he wouldn’t survive another 2 years. This went on until he entered his 20’s. But this February he became very ill with a virus around the lining of his heart. As if that wasn’t bad enough, he suffered a stroke. The doctors had no choice but to put him on life support. Finally, the day came whe they informed his mom he had very little brain activity and she should start thinking about removing him from the life support. Instead if making that decision, she said “he’s in Gods’ hands”.The next morning he opened his eyes and tried to tell her he was hungry! 3 weeks later he celebrated his 28th birthday! NO ONE but God knows how much time we have and I, for one, refuse to let someone else, who dosen’t know any more than I do, is going to make that decision for me! So when you get REALLY down, think about Mark Collinson!

Rikki Lary

Praise God that he is doing better today. My husband myself and our two boys are praying for you guys your girls, and the rest of your family! You are great people in Christ, and I just belive that he is working miracles for your family right now!!!

April Mohrmann

I just heard about Bowen through a friend of mine. And it made me think of my what me 19 year old daughter said in her first sermon last Sunday at our church. She talked about keeping our strength and hope. How when things happen we can ask ourselves why us or we can have the mindset to say why not us? God has a plan for our lives and will use everything for His glory. Sharing your story can help so many others going through the same thing. We will be praying for your family….for precious baby Bowen to be completely healed and for strength for your family. God Bless!!!

Ben and Mary

I have checked in several times today to see if there were any updates. Each time with a little fear but also hope that God would hear all our prayers and heal baby Bowen. He is one special little guy to be so loved by many many people all of whom are united in prayer in his behalf. Please God mend baby Bowen’s heart so he can follow you as you have planned. We have faith and trust that you will care for him and his family in this time of great need.
Ben and Mary

Thank you so much for taking the time to update us. I can’t even imagine what you are going through. We are praying for your sweet little boy. We’re also praying for your entire family, especially your little girls that are probably so confused right now.

Scott

Air 1.com is monitoring this site too…..Bowen….We are all are going to continue to pray for you endlessly. God bless your family. Our hearts are there in AnnArbor Michigan. Bowen is in great hands. Especially the hands of Christ. Keep the strength and power of Jesus Christ in your hearts. Bowen will pull through.

Lizzie

Debbie

Have been praying all day for Bowen. Don’t try to think about or worry about tomorrow. God’s grace is sufficient for TODAY! This day! Sometimes we live moment by moment and His grace is with us moment by moment. Please know you all are being surrounded in prayer. Lift your chin, lift your eyes and lift your arms. I don’t always understand. I don’t always agree BUT I always trust. I am believing for a miracle for Bowen!

Baby Logan was a little baby that was brought to my attention when he was in his mother’s womb. The doctors advised the mom to abort. I am not not sure the mom is a believer, but I do know she chose to not abort. She said it was up to God. All through the pregnancy, she heard awful things to what could happen for Logan. He could live on a respirator his whole life. He could be born without lungs which would cause death shortly after birth etc. Nothing positive was said. YET, each teeny tiny milestone, God worked a miracle. He not only was born, but a few months later, came home from the hospital with NOTHING wrong with him except acid reflux now! Mind you, he did have surgery after birth to correct the layout of his organs, etc., so again, each milestone had to be lived day by day and sometimes moment by moment.

Michelle Powers

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Thank you for taking the time to update us. I can tell you that my 8 year old asks about baby Bowen DAILY. He is a huge Sanctus Real fan and belts the words out in the back seat every chance he gets. You are a special family who has given so much to share your gift with others, now it’s our chance to share our prayers for you and Bowen. So for me and my family, we won’t stop praying for your family and Bowen until God has healed his heart. Thank you for what you have given my family, something wonderful to sing at the top of our lungs and glorify God with.

Robin

Just wanted you to know that I have been praying and thinking about ya’ll all day!!! I cannot begin to imagine what yall are going through. My little man had surgery at 6 weeks and that was so hard!!! Prayers are going up for yall!!

Melissa Opsahl

We are praying God’s mighty and all-knowing hand for you and your family! Strength and Not-of-This-World PEACE to your souls as you move through this day and the days ahead. Thank you for sharing your hearts with ours!

Jeanie

May the Creator of Baby Bowen quiet your fears, and give your hearts peace. Your ministry to all of us during this time is incredible in ways that maybe only God will know. And know that God is using this situation to His good in MIGHTY ways. I pray for you all, and I especially pray for the Miracle that is Bowen. May God see fit to raise him up and heal him to use him in awesome ways throughout the rest of his life!

Amy Newberry

I was driving in the car when you sent the text to KLOVE to inform everyone that Bowen was headed to surgery. I was in prayer before hand as they had mentioned your story before even the day of the surgery and I have continued to pray for you as I have been led to do so. I am a Mother of three boys and I have so loved God allowing me to have that role. God has revealed to me that the boys are not mine really at all but that He has entrusted them to me for a short while to mold them in His teachings and to be a role model of an adult whose life is dependant and thrives through God alone. I have watched God do amazing things in my life. One thing I know for sure is that God loves Bowen and has surrounded Him with His heavenly hosts for comfort and that He is holding your entire family through this. He is so good and great and all things have His purpose in mind. My heart aches as I think of how your must feel right now. I sing also at my church on the praise band and have found God delights in praising Him through all times–He often brings words to my mind which touch my heart through tough and scary times. I pray He will do the same for each of you. God is in control ALWAYS. May God bless you beyond what you ever thought or imagined!!! I know He has me and my family though satan has brought about some storms. As your sister in Christ I declare these things–may God’s power and glory be seen above all things in this situation…in His love, Amy

My prayers continue… I too have been tuned into K-LOVE (where I first found out about Bowen) and have returned to your blog through out the day. I also posted about him in my little blog asking for everyone that reads my blog to pray for Bowen and your family. I too have been keeping you in prayer all day. Be strong. Know God’s Love. Bowen has already made a difference in so many lives and he is so young. How proud you must be of your little guy.
Thank you for updating us. Please know that you are all loved.
Love In Christ~ janis

Barb Meyer

Bowen Family, your family and little guy are in our prayers. God bless you. Our daughter is Jan Gonzalez and we learned of his surgery. I will put him on our prayer list at church here in Greencastle Indiana.
Take care
Barb and Tom Meyer

Mandy - Auburn, IN

I am so happy to hear the positive news. I can’t imagine what you are going through. Glad you are going to have some time with the girls. They are so cute! Your family in Indiana is checking in often and praying for all of you. Stay strong. With all of our love.

Shannon

We are so glad to hear he is doing well. Continued prayers and thoughts are going your way. We are also asking everyone we know to lift you guys up in their prayers as well. Jesus is your Rock and Strength when you are weak. One of our friends gave us a placard that said the following and I thought of you today when I looked at it:

Rest: Mat 11:28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

I hope you are able to rest with your girls as you wait on God’s timing with Bowen’s recovery.

Holly Nodine

I’ve just come into a valley one like I’ve never been before.
I keep searching for a way out seems like pad locks are on the doors.
Oh ther must be another sunrise another sunset that I’ll see.
God will make this trial a blessing that’s the love he has for me.

God will make this trial a blessing tho it sends me to my knees.
Tho my tears flow like a river yet in him there’s sweet relief.
There’s no need to get discouraged there’s no need to talk defeat.
God will make this trial a blessing and the whole wide world will see.

This is an old song by the McKameys but it always reminds me that God always has a bigger plan!
May God give you all strength & comfort right now! We are praying fo all of you and sweet baby Bowen!

Samantha

Bowen and family,
My family is praying for you through this difficult time. We have been down the same road with our heart baby who is now called a survivor.
Precious Father, I lift up Bowen to you. Please heal his heart, O God. Please bring him to a full and complete recovery. We know that You are the Great Physician. We ask that You be with this child. Wrap Your loving arms around him and heal his heart. I also lift up Bowen’s family to you at this time. Please just comfort them and give them strength in the days ahead. Please be with the little girls and give them peace and uderstanding. Please be with mom and dad, and let them feel your presence, O God. Pleae be with the doctors and nurses during this time. Please give them the knowledge necessary for your healing to be evident in Bowen and the wisdom to know when and how to do what is necessary.

Dawn Kajiyama

I meat you guys behind the stage at the Matt Maher concert last month in Toledo. Try to keep your heads up cause I know it’s going to be tough. Just remember that the God that performed miracles in the Bible is still the same God that is alive today. Still praying for you guys and the little man!

Nadell

So glad to know he is doing better. My family continues to pray for your family and for little Bowen. May God help you find the strength to get through these rough days and help the girls to understand and be secure in their faith.

Bernadette

Thinking of bringing each of my four children home and the excitement surrounding thereafter, I can’t even imagine what you must be going through. I’ve been praying hard for you and your entire family all day. One thing I know, our God is FAITHFUL! His ways are nothing like our ways, and while I don’t understand why you’re going through this, I know that God’s plans for us are great. I will continue to pray and pass on the request for health and healing of your precious little baby. As things are looking brighter I’m reminded that, “Though the sorrow may last for the night, His joy comes in the morning.” May little Bowen continue to grow healthy and strong and be a testament of God’s amazing love for even those smallest and most helpless. Much love to you all.

Lifting you both up today. I know that God is holding your precious son in His arms…just as he is holding you. Praying that he gives you a peace that passes all understanding. Praying and sending love to you.

Mary Ann Frederick

Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. God is in control and Praise him in all that he does. Knowing that Bowen is a child of God and that he is being looked after by the best physician is awesome!!

I cried tears today when I heard on K-love what had happened over night to little bowen I went home and immediately prayed for him again…and for you and Sarah…it takes me back 5 years when our little girl was in the NICU…I am glued to your story and am on my knees in prayer continually for you guys…Hugs Traci

Elise

Thank You God for good news. Continuing to pray and believe that Bowen will pull through. What a difficult experience as parents to have to watch helplessly as your child fights for his life. I am amazed at your strength and courage and faith. Praying for abundant grace and comfort for you, and for Bowen to feel God’s healing presence all around him, breathing life into his body and making him well.

Dawn

J L

Father, hear the prayers of your humble servant. We praise you in all things, and we want you to be praised in all that we do and say. Many are watching, Father, and many still need to know your son. We ask, Father, in the name of Jesus for you to give Bowen life by the power of the Spirit, and heal this child so that all who are watching will know that you are God, and that Jesus is your son, and that there is true healing in his name – forgiveness from our sins. May this bring you glory and honor and power and praise, forevermore! May it be so!

Donna

Continuing to pray for all of you, but especially Bowen. I don’t think anyone can ever be prepared for what you all are going through, but I know God is there every step of the way. You all are loved by so many and have so many people coming before God our Father on behalf of your family. Praying for you all.

Sarah Graumann

I understand exactly what you mean when you say “saw and felt.” Yes, it is literally indescribable with words; tears are the only way I was ever able to process the experience myself. Hearing of your experience brings it all back in an instant. We continue to think about and pray for little Bowen.

Vanessa Almeida

philana stafford

saw the news about your family from one of my facebook friends. i will be praying for your precious little boy – that the doctors would have the wisdom of God to know how to help him, and that Bowen will have the heart of a fighter. God bless.

Melissa

Barb

May the Hand of the Heavenly Father be with your family. May you feel God’s presence. May the Lord give wisdom to the doctors and medical staff. Know that you are not alone. Your little guy will continue to fight. Heart surgery recipients all have one things in common: We fight hard! Take care. I will join with others in prayer.
” For I know the plans that I have for you,”declares the Lord,”plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

Yvonne

All praise and Glory to God! Thank You Thank You Jesus, please continue to pull precious bowen through this and continue to give Matt and Sarah and their family the strength and continued faith through all of this! I have never met you Matt or Sarah but I love you and your family and baby Bowen soo much already…and I will continue praying for you now and forever! JESUS I LOVE YOU AND THANK YOU FOR BLESSING THEIR FAMILY WITH BOWEN AND FOR BLESSING US WITH BOWEN! AMEN!

Linda Meemken

My thoughts and prayers are with you in this most difficult time. I have had my children in the hospital also, although nothing like this situation, and I also found solace in knowing that God’s hand is on it and everything and will guide things in the way they will go. My favorite saying….He won’t bring you to it if He can’t bring you through it. Many prayers and happy thoughts!!!

Julia

Leslie

I just read what ur family has been going thru with ur son:-( your family will be in my prayers & I will place him on our prayer list at church. We get together for intercessory prayer every Monday night. God bless

Laurie

Know that God is holding your hand through all of this He sees the fear in your eyes and He sees you barely hanging on to Him but He’s not going to leave you in this time of distress no matter what happens will work out for your good God has a plan and He’s not going to let go of your hand. Just keep praying and praising Him for the wonderful things He has done and will do. That’s His child too He loves it more than you do and He’s going to take care of you! All of you. Be encouraged and blessed!

Alyssa Miller

Sarah L

Glad to hear the next few hours have been better. Sounds like a date with the big sisters is a great idea!! I continue to hold your family close in my thoughts and prayers as the journey continues. Sarah – Matt would love to have a date with you even if it is lunchmeat sandwiches from the cafeteria . . . Matt- Sarah would love a date with you even if its of the everyday variety. . . Just want to remind you to take time for the couple too. . so you can take a moment to soak in the moments the good, the rough and the “everyday” of being together. God bless this family as they each struggle with their own emotions and support each other thru these trying times. May the smiles from the big sisters bring peace to this mom and dad’s heart for the next hours. Bless this baby, Bless these parents, Bless all involved in Bowen’s care. May your WILL be done!! Prayers. . . Sarah L

Shauna

It is difficult to put into words, the overwelming care and concern we feel for Bowen and for all of you! What a precious little boy he is! You are constantly in our thoughts and prayers! Thank you for letting us all be a part of this journey…it has been a tremendous blessing being able to share these last few months with you…and we will continue on with you. By sharing your genuineness: your struggles, heartaches, joys and triumphs with us, you have forever become a part of us! We praise our Lord for His love, faithfulness and grace, and for you! To God be the glory!

Jen

Reading your update this morning was heart-breaking. Reading your update this afternoon is joyous! Praise God for all He has done and all He will do. I will pray for Bowen forever! Our God is worthy to be praised!

Missy

So glad to hear today is better for little Bowen! You are all in our prayers as you have been for months. God can do great things! I have a friends who’s daughter just celebrated her 16th birthday. She was born 3 months early weighing 1 lb 3 oz. I remember seeing her and she was the size of a stick of butter. Every hour brought something different keep praying, prayers can always get you through what ever it is. May God bless you all!!

Lori

Amy

You have been in my thoughts and prayers all day. I have a cousin who has a 2 year old born with HLHS he is doing well but it can be a roller coaster ride. May you feel the comfort, strength and peace that comes only from our Heavenly Father in this time.

Amanda

I commented yesterday but I know I will be encouraging your family everyday. As I said before my son has the same exact condition. It is a rollercoaster ride, but you do have to trust that God will take care of Bowen. Im sure that you have wonderful surgeons as we did. They are a gift from God and they know what they are doing. Keep the faith and we will be praying for you. Keep in mind my son is now 14 months old and doing awesome! The first year is definately difficult but you can get through with support. We’ll keep praying for Bowen and your family. Love, The Silva Family in CA

Gracie

Christina D

I am praying for your precious baby and all that his little body has gone through and still has to go through. I am also praying for you as parents. The love we have for our children makes us put everything else away when our child is in need, but you all need your rest also. I am praying for rest for you both and to know that the prayers, love and comfort of so many are with you all….God Bless you both, your daughters, your family and precious little Bowen!

Ruthie

God has his hands on this precious baby boy.. I pray that God will give you the comfort you need in this time, and that you are able to give it all to God. God doesnt give us anything that we cant handle. Everything happens according to his will. <3 God bless you and Bowen.. You are in my prayers

audra shank

I am so sorry that you have to be going through this… You are living a page out of my own story… Your faith will carry you.. Parent to parent – you are not alone although it may seem like it… Try to stay strong…. No words can describe what is happening and no words can describe that power of God… Stay strong in your faith and let it guide you.. Sending so many prayers your way… I wish your family well..

Karen Welch

Frank333

Thank you Jesus, for all you have done and all you will do in our lives. I can recount all the times you have come through for me and your timing is always perfect. Please put your healing hand upon Bowen and receive the glory for what You have done.

I am praying for litlte Bowen! I just heard of his story today, through a couple of Heart Moms on FB. I am local and a Heart Mom myself. Many many prayers for your sweet little man today and for your whole family.

Meagan Barnes

Praise God. We have been praying for you ever since we found out about this. May God bless and keep you all. I believe that God will heal little Bowen of his infirmity! Love and Prayers. Jeremiah Floyd and Family

Matt–
I haven’t seen you in years but a friend from EMI told me your story. I am definitely praying for Bowen. I agree–God knit him together for a purpose. Praying for strength and peace for all of you guys.

mary

I had a baby in the intensive care unit two years ago. She was born at 28 weeks. God was with my the entire process, My baby girl is now 2 and thriving. she is bigger than her older sister. It is hard to give the attention to the other little ones in the family. my poor husband had to run three different places when i was in the hospital, but always made time for everyone. it was hard on him.
you are in all in my prayers and think of you often. Hang in there, the nicu unit in the hospital is an amazing place filled with live angels as nurses, and those that are not seen as well. it is an amazing place
i

friend

I had a baby in the intensive care unit two years ago. She was born at 28 weeks. God was with my the entire process, My baby girl is now 2 and thriving. she is bigger than her older sister. It is hard to give the attention to

the other little ones in the family. my poor husband had to run three different places when i was in the hospital, but always made time for everyone. it was hard on him.
\
you are in all in my prayers and think of you often. Hang in there, the nicu unit in the hospital is an amazing place filled with live angels as nurses, and those that are not seen as well. it is an amazing place

Deeana & Cameron HLHS

My prayers and thoughts are with you today, and God is faithful. Bowen is truely a gift and a fighter…never give up hope and keep a vision of him smiling for the days ahead…it’s what got me through the 3 stages of surgeries with my Cameron who was born with HLHS too. Stay positive and rest as well…he will need your strength but never give up hope…God is with us and never leaves us…keep trusting Him.

Karen Lindsay

I thought I’d just mention that you have another praying for your son and many more to follow as I pass this on. I will also be praying for your continued peace and comfort from our Lord and peace and understanding for your girls. He works miracles. We see them everyday. Keep praying.

Roberta

I understand what you are going through! My son has HRHS, which is also very rare. I just wanted you to know, I will be praying everyday for you & your family. This is a roller coaster that doesn’t stop or slow down for long, but the best news is God is riding with you.
In God’s loving arms,
The Bond’s

Jo Ellen Elixson

Praise God for His Great Mercies. I think and pray for Bowen daily and I am so glad that he is handling life support well – one day at a time and may God be merciful to your entire family. My prayers for all of you continue. May God continued to be praised for His mercies to us. Jo Ellen

Diane

I remember you sharing at the SonShine Music Festival (Willmar, MN) about your son. It stayed with me because some friends of our had found out their unborn baby had something wrong with its heart. They were due in Sept too.

This couple, Daniel and Leah, (MN) know exactly where you are at. Their fourth child, Joshua, was born 9/11/10. The heart problem was discovered via an ultrasound. Joshua is at this very moment having heart surgery. I don’t know if it helps knowing someone else is walking thru such a similar experience and during the same time period but know there are two other parents leaning on our God for strength, wisdom and peace in the same situation at this very moment.

Kim H

Please be with Daniel and Leah and their sweet baby Joshua this evening. May they feel your comfort and peace during this trying time and may they know that somehow, some way, You are going to use this situation for Your glory. I ask Father for complications to not arise as little Joshua begins the healing process after surgery. Please guide the physicians and anyone who is caring for Joshua, and give each of them clear thinking and wisdom to know exactly what is needed at any given time.

Thank you Father for your love, your grace and your mercy~ and thank you for keeping this family in the palm of your hand. May their faith be strengthened throughout this journey. We love and praise you Lord for all you have done and all that you are going to do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Tracy

Praying for your family and little Bowen. What a blessing from God he is and you know God has a Mighty plan. I pray that He will wrap his healing hands around your little one and and give you both the strength you need at this most trying time. God bless you and prayers will contiue.

Lisa

I am praying for your family all throughout the day, and in the night when I am up with my own newborn.
God bless you… so glad to hear he is doing well… Wish I could give you a hug. Thanks for keeping up posted.

Holly

Your family is in our prayers and your faith is beyond inspiring. Please know that so many of us out here are praying for you and are impacted by your family and your strength. The music played/sung by Sanctus Real has done wonders for families and brightened the Holy Spirits life in all of us. Thank you for what you do and for being such a wonderous example of God’s love for us.

MacTavish14

Praying for you all!
Just wanted to say two things:
1, I went to the link you gave for HLHS, and I was floored reading about the first surgical step being called the Norwood procedure. Dr. Norwood is the pediatric cardiothoracic surgeon who operated on my Tetralogy of Fallot in 1984. Yes, I have a congenital heart defect, just like Bowen.
2. There is a CHD Quilt program. These people have made over 60 quilts in honor of people born with different heart defects, and they’ll make one for Bowen. The quilts tour North America raising awareness for all 27+ CHDs. http://www.chdquilt.org/ (PS my block is on quilt 60.)
–MacTavish14
TOF, repaired 1984

Maggie Parker

With so many people praying (including myself) I believe you will look back (soon) and see and believe that God does, indeed answer prayers. Remember that he only wants what is best for everyone, and that he holds EVERY tear you shed in his hands.

Lisa Szabo

That is good to hear that he is doing well on the support. Just take it day by day, moment by moment and stay close to the Lord and you will know his will not matter what happens….God is in control! 🙂 We continue to pray, please enjoy some time with your girls, they need you and love you both! 🙂

Tammy Strickler

Angie Dixon

I cannot even fathom what all must be going on with you emotionally at this point but I know that God knows and cares about even the most minute detail of Bowen and his care. He has placed him in a top notch facility with knowledgeable medical staff and the perfect set of parents to be there for him. God doesn’t make mistakes…Bowen’s life-from inception-has spoken to volumes of people about God’s LOVE, GRACE, MERCY and PEACE! Thank you for sharing your journey with the “public” so that we all can be blessed along the way!

Laura (Engel) Madison

Sarah, I have not talked to you in so many years, but my mom called to let me know what was going on with your little boy. I am praying for you and Matt and Bowen’s big sisters for God’s peace and healing. I hope you are well, your family is beautiful!!!!!

Keri from Michigan

Thank you Jesus!! I’ve been anxiously checking for another update on how Bowen’s been doing since the scare last night. I can’t imagine what you guys are going through. I am a mommy of two little ones so thinking about what you guys saw and heard last night must have been so terrifying. The love you have for your children is like no other…take comfort in knowing that Jesus loves Bowen even more than you guys do – that’s a whole lot!

Continuing to pray for your little man and that each day he will improve and live a long and full life!

I’ve had your family in my thoughts & prayers since I heard back in the summer. I will keep you in my prayers & thoughts! Thanks for the updates, I’d been looking for new information. Thanks to K-Love I was able to find out! I’ll ask everyone I know to pray! It has to be awesome to feel all the love & prayers coming your way! God bless! Love you!!

Lisa in Iowa

Emily

Hey Matt,
I met you in Lubbock TX and my nephew, Matthew, is the little guy that talked with you who has HLHS. Hang in there the Lord will provide you with the strength that you need each moment to deal with everything that you are facing. Your sweet son and family are being prayed for all around the world! Hold tightly to your faith and our Savior!
Lord, we ask for complete healing over Bowen right now in the name of JESUS! Lord you are our healer and provider and we know that you are in complete control. Please give the entire Hammit family peace, rest and perseverance as they trust you completely with little Bowen.
We thank you Lord for all that you have done already in and through little Bowen and his family and will continue to do!
In your Precious name… AMEN!

Kathy Darr

Matt & Sarah,
I’m so glad to hear Bowen is doing well today on life support. Our prayers are with you and your family. Lord Jesus please heal Bowens little broken heart, give him the strength he needs to carry on. Be with the Hammitt family also Lord, give them the strength they need, and the peace that passes all understanding, knowing that Bowen is in the hands of the creator of life.

Jan White

My prayers are with you, Sarah and baby Bowen. May God surround you all with His mighty power and continue to watch over your precious baby boy until He can work His perfect healing. May God give you strength sufficient for each hour of this struggle. We serve a God of miracles and this child is one of His special miracles.

Tandy

Enjoy that precious little boy! He has already blessed so many people, and look at all of the love and support he has! So many have come together to pray for this one little life and God hears us!!!! Be encouraged Hammitt family! The Lord your God will be with you wherever you go! We will pray without ceasing on behalf of baby Bowen and your family! Love and Blessings!

Natalie Drozdowicz

We are definitely praying for your family. Thank you for keeping all of us updated on Bowen’s progress so we know how to pray, I am sure it is hard to maintain a website in the midst of all of this!!!! But Bowen has lots of prayer warriors, and we are all praying for you guys.

Cox family

PRAISE THE LORD. We have been praying for you all so much Matt you are a blessing to us with your songs and what you are doing for the Lord. Every time we get to see you in concert we are blessed. I pray that the will give you the strenth you all need. I know how it is to have your baby in the hospital. Rachel had to surgery at 4 months old and her brother Daniel was back in the hospital when he was a week old he stoped breathing on us. It is hard thing to watch your child lay there and not knowing. I’m praying that God will give you the peace that passes all understanding. We love you all and are praying for you.

Summer Magyar

Your family is in my prayers. Your music has a special place in my heart because your song “Lead Me” healed my heart and saved my marriage. I am in constant prayer for your baby boy. Such a precious life to be touching so many hearts. Keep the faith and remain strong.

Ashley ♥

My family’s prayers are with you!
Our daughter Faith was born with gastroschisis (her intestines were on the outside) and spent 4 months in the NICU with a number of complications and multiple major surgeries, and spent nearly the entire first month of her life on life support.
She is now almost 2, and God has worked many miracles in her life, bringing her back from less than a 50% chance to live, more than once! No one would even know now that there was ever anything wrong with her, unless they saw the scars on her belly…
The verse you quote from the Psalms, that God has knit your baby perfectly in your womb, was a major comfort to me when the enemy would whisper into my mind, causing me to question why our baby was born “defective”… I know now that God uses these “defects” to do His work, and wonderful things have come from our daughter’s health struggles.
God is amazing, His love is amazing, and these struggles He puts us through are amazing growth opportunities for our faith! We are closer to Him than we have ever been, because we know He carried us through the past 2 years, and He will never let us go.
He is with you, and you have the love and prayers of many more people than you could imagine…

Stephanie Zeigler

Praise God that little Bowen is doing ok. My heart aches for the pain you are enduring. I have prayed all day for you and your family. There is so much pain surrounding us right now, but we must trust that God will pull us all thru. He will never leave us. Take care of yourselves and those beautiful little girls. Baby Bowen is being lifted in prayer in Trenton, Ohio for sure.

Jennifer Harper

WOW! So glad you have so many prayer warriors praying! Glad Bowen is a fighter and we’ll continue to pray. I’ve been checking in for updates today. Just know that you are in God’s hands and HE is with you and will hold you up.
With Love,
Jennifer

Nancy

Matt and Sarah, I have been listening to the status on KLOVE of your son, Bowen. Everytime they give an update I send up a prayer for your family. I know you trust in God to know what is best and that He does hear prayer. May God keep you in the palm of His hand and give you strength to endure.

Beth Dudley

Kristen

Dear Hammitt family,
Please know that my family and I are extending to your our many prayers, support, and love along this difficult journey. Always remember the Jesus Christ is the answer to every problem, filler of every gap, and calmer of every storm; nothing and no one else is more wise to to trust in!

Heidi

You will be safe in His arms
‘Cause the hands that hold the world are holding your heart
This is the promise He made
He will be with You always
When everything is falling apart
You will be safe in His arms!!!!!

Misty

I have followed yall’s story of K-Love, in the mornings on my way to school. I am a full-time student with a 3 year old little boy who was born prematurely. I have just a little inkling of how the both of you are feeling. This morning I when I heard that your family had a rough night, My heart went out to the both of you. May God pick up your little boy, hold him to his chest and protect him forever. The song playing right now says that “He will be safe in his arms!” I will continue to pray for your family, and I can not wait for the day that I hear that your little family has brought Bowen home. May the Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you, The LORD turn his face towards you and give you peace. Keep being strong and when the two of you get to finally hold Bowen, ask the nurses about the “Kangaroo Hold” This was done with my son, the nurses striped him down to his diaper and he was put directly on my chest. Our body heat helped him heal.

Your family and little Bowen will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. Your little boy has already touched so many lives and the lord has more lives to touch by the miracle of his life and the hope of your story. Walking by faith and not sight is one of the hardest things to do.

Terri Tschetter

Rhonda H

Praise God ! I have to share something with you , There is a Teenage Girl in the Community where i live that when she was Pregnant they told her that her Baby Boy Had a Hole in his heart , I’m not familiar with Bowen’s Condition , But to make a long story short She gave Birth Early Sunday Morning on 9/12/10 We had been and were Praying for her and the Baby and when he was Born we got the report that the Baby’s Heart DID NOT HAVE A HOLE IN IT AND THAT HE WAS PERFECT !!!!!!! We have seen MIRACLES!!! And we serve a BIG and MIGHTY GOD!!! THERE IS HOPE DON’T GIVE UP!!!! I know he CAN and WILL do it for YOU!!! we’ll be Praying!!!! Rhonda

Lauren Snyder

Hello Matt and Sarah…
I’m aching as I think about the roller coaster you’re on. It is a parent’s nightmare to see their baby hurt!!! Adding our prayers to the many already being said for you!!!
Much love,
The Snyder’s (Ben, Lauren, Lydia and Samuel)
P.S. Hugs to your girls as well! Lydia got a big kick out of seeing another girl in the same dress as her on Sunday 🙂

Cassandra

Susie

Praise God! My family and I are praying for all of you. Please relinquish control…that is the only way I made it through my pregnancy with monoamniotic twins. The specialist told me I would be lucky to get one of my girls here alive. I placed my trust in my Lord and Savior and I never thought about it again! Prayer is so amazingly powerful. Keep the faith! He is the ultimate healer! There is no other way! God Bless each of you today and always!

Alicia

Dear Hammit Family,
Please know that so many are praying for you. God has a perfect plan and will for Baby Bowen. Hold strong to your faith and to each other. Psalm 121 “I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; From whence shall my help come? My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth…. The Lord is your keeper, the Lord is the shade on your right hand”! God bless your family as you go through this trying time!!!

Linda

Thank you for this update … bless you for letting us all know in the midst of your exhaustion and heartache, how your precious gift from God, Bowen, is doing now. Praise the Lord that he is holding his own and doing better! I’ve been in prayer today, as I know so many other prayer warriors here have been too … we are all praying in agreement for your darling baby boy’s full healing, and for Jesus’ healing hands to be laid upon him. I’m thanking Jesus right now for all He has done and for all He will do for your precious family. Thank You, my precious Lord, for still being in the miracle business!

Margot Sandagorda

Ever since I heard Bowen’s story on KLove I’ve been following your updates faithfully. I wish could do somthing more to ease your family’s anxiety and sadness in these difficult times. But I hope you will take comfort in the fact that there are thousands of people that have joined together in prayer for your family and your beautiful baby boy. God is with you and he will never abandon you. As his word says in Psalm 23:4, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” All of our prayers are with your family and God will see you through these difficult times. He says he does not give us trials we can’t bear. He knows you and your family and he knows you can can make it through. Little Bowen will always remain in my prayers and I have faith that he will heal and grow up to be an amazing man.

NICHOLE BECHTEL

Joe

I have just been reading through Bowen’s story and am praying for him and your family constantly. I will pass this on to friends to pray for him as well. May God’s grace give you peace during this time and strength to Bowen.

Cindy

I am so happy to hear the latest bit of news. I pray you can feel the love, support and prayers each of us send you. I know our father is in charge of all and we may not understand the whys at this moment. I want you to know that you, Matt and Sarah have been a great inspiration to me and my newly begun walk with God. Reading your post and sensing your strength gives me new hope and faith that I can do anything with God. Please know that I love you as my family in Christ and little Bowen as I would love my own. I can offer nothing put deep heart felt prayer for you and your journey during this trial. I love you

Chris

Know that God is hearing ALL His Children’s prayers. I will continue, as well as my church & youth group, continue to lift Little Bowen up in prayer. When His children hurt, He hurts. He will ALWAYS be by Bowen’s side in all this. God Bless & like my pastor says, Keep Looking to Jesus.

Lynda Knapp

Praise the Lord! I am so happy to hear that Bowen is doing better. I will continue to keep you and your family (as well as the medical professionals) in my prayers. Hope that you have some great quality time with your daughters today.

Lori

When I heard about Bowen on K Love this afternoon I was on my way home from the grocery store. I just began to pray for Bowen and your famiily. I can’t even imagine what you must be going through, but I know God is with you, carrying you through. I’m praying for health and wholeness for this precious little one.

Kathy

My daughter was diagnosed with Atrial Septal Defect, hole in her heart. We had about 1-1/2 years of many specialist visits, hospital stays, congestive heart failure, and heart medications. We were told she would probably need open heart surgery before the age of 2. At one of her specialist visit, the defect could no longer be detected and further testing was done. A surprised doctor came in and told us he wasn’t sure what happened, but she no longer had a heart defect. We knew what had happened. The Lord healed her totally. One thing I do remember at the very beginning of this long journey was how hard it was to hear the diagnois and the uncertainity of the future. My sis told me to give her back to the Lord and leave her in His hands knowing that how ever it turned out, it was His will. That was very hard to do, but she was right. She was His from the beginning and still was. The healing wasn’t instant but going through the difficult times only made the healing that much more of a miracle and made us much stronger in Him. My prayers are with your family and little Bowen, a blessing in every sense of the word. His life has a purpose no matter how long or short it may be. And you’ve been blessed to have this time with this little angel.

STephanie Goebel

I am praying for you and your family. I have been were you are and I know how hard it is. I almost lost my son when he was 15mnths old and he is now 3 so i have seen the power or prayer and the Lords healing hand. I am praying and My God bless you and your family and give you comfort.

Melissa Perez

Heavenly father open the up the gates of heaven and pour your holy spirit over your beloved family. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray healing, wholeness, peace, restoration and comfort over baby Bowen and his family. Psalm 91

As I hold my healthy happy 5 month old little boy – I am in such pain for your family. I cannot imagine what pain you are feeling…I believe God has a reason for everything and while I cannot possibly understand His reason for something like this – I know He is with you and your sweet baby boy. I will keep you all in my prayers. May God place his hands on Bowen and heal his heart, his body and his soul.

Jelena

Glad to read the little one is doing better. Jeremy Camp posted on his fb-page the day before Bowen was born Psalm 27:14 in the KJV: “Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.” When I read that verse I KNEW it was “Bowen’s verse”., Just when I read the entry here K-Love was playing “You carried me” of Building 429. I’m quite sure you know the chorus, I want to post it here though:

You carried me
You carried me
You carried me through it all
And I believe
Yes I believe
You’ll carry me all the way home
Cause mercy covers all
Cause mercy covers all

Lord I pray that you strengthen Bowen’s heart just as you promised it, I pray that you strengthen Bowen’s confidence in you that you won’t forget him nor forsake him. I pray that you help Matt and Sarah cope with the feeling of helplessness when they want to hold Bowen and protect him from all the pain he has to go through now. I pray that they know you carry them when they don’t know where to get the power from, when they only want to cry, when they don’t know what will happen within the next hour. Help them to put in words some day what they went through in these days. Lord I thank you that they will eventually take Bowen back home and enjoy life with him. Thank you Jesus for this.

Monica

I am praying for Bowen, your wife, you and your daughters. This is a prayer that has given me strength & peace for 25yrs now. I’d like to share it with you, may it give you guys strength and peace as well. In His Name–Monica
“Do not look forward to the changes and chances of this life in fear; rather, look to them with full hope that, as they arise, God, whose you are, will deliver you out of them. He has kept you until now–do you but hold fast to His dear hand and He will lead you safely through all things; and when you cannot stand, He will bear you in His arms.

Do not look forward to what may happen tomorrow; the same everlasting Father who cares for you today will take care of you tomorrow and every day. Either He will shield you from suffering or He will give you unfailing strength to bear it.

Be at peace, then, and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations.

Barbara

Kelly Roach

God is faithful and He sees the big picture. I am trusting Him to see you through! Enjoy your quality time with your girls and I am praying for your family! You have been a great testimony in showing what it means to totally trust God and love Him no matter what!

Freddy Gonzalez

Susan

I’m down on my knees again tonight
I’m hoping this prayer will turn out right
See there is a boy that needs Your help
I’ve done all that I can do myself
His mother is tired
I’m sure You can understand
Each night as he sleeps
She goes in to hold his hand
And she tries not to cry
As the tears fill her eyes

CHORUS:
Can You hear me?
Am I getting through tonight?
Can You see him?
Can You make him feel all right?
If You can hear me
Let me take his place somehow
See, he’s not just anyone
He’s my son

Sometimes late at night I watch him sleep
I dream of the boy he’d like to be
I try to be strong and see him through
But God who he needs right now is You
Let him grow old
Live life without this fear
What would I be
Living without him here
He’s so tired and he’s scared
Let him know that You’re there

Camey Carter

Jayme

You are in our thoughts and prayers. Glad to hear and read that Bowen is stable and a fighter. We serve an AWESOME God and your family and your music are an inspiration to us all. I can’t wait to see what God has in store for Sanctus Real through this journey. In his service, Jayme Brown

Hannah Bourk

I just recently heard about your son’s struggle on K-Love and ever since iv’e been thinking and praying about him. I just wanted you both to know that my whole family and I will be keeping him in our prayers everyday until His will prevails. I pray God gives you the strength and perseverance to make it through this trying time. Just rememer, God will carry you through it all.

For i know the plans I have for you…plans to prosper you and not harm you
~Jeremiah 29:11~

Maria

Thank you, Jesus. I know it’s a baby step that he’s doing well right now, but at least it’s a step in the right direction. May the Lord hold you close, and may His love strengthen your hearts. We love you!

Prayers, prayers, prayers. Bowen, you have so many people thinking of you right now. Keep fighting, little guy.

bev

Been listening to KLove and your story. Been hard day to listen to your story today – you see, I’m in the midst of a miscarriage. lab tests say its over, but my heart isn’t ready to let go.
We thought we clearly heard God’s voice in this pregnancy and now are struggling to understand what/if we really heard God’s voice at all…You must have some of the same questions.
Asking Him for a clear voice to lead you through this storm.

Isobel

Diane Clayton

There’s no way you could read all of these comments, but I feel sure that just seeing the numbers gives you certainty that your family is being lifted up by many, many people. I have a best friend whose third child was diagnosed with a Stage IV brain tumor at 5 months old. She turned four this past May and is currently cancer free. During their journey, however, many friends that they made along the way lost their children to the same cancer. I pray for all of you to have the strength required to accept whatever God’s will may be, while I hope for you that Bowen will be completely healed. God bless.

Staci Thacker

Tina Thiel

Matt and Sarah I pray for all the things you’ve asked. I pray that Bowen will continue to grow stronger each day and that God’s perfect will be carried out through your lives as you continue to serve Him. He loves you and I pray that His peace, mercy and strength will get you all through this impossibly difficult time in your lives. Many blessings,
Tina

My wife sent me searching for a song she heard on the radio “LEAD ME” and when I found it, I was convicted by its message – as she was. I then stumbled upon your facebook page from a friend and it led me to your website about Bowen. I have been sending youtube links to all of my church friends in hopes they would find the same treasure I did with that song and others like it on that album and be convicted to change our hearts back to God’s LEAD.

I am so encouraged by your faithfulness and OPENESS as a couple. I know God will bless you in this trial and will certainly bless Bowen with love and healing in God’s own way. I will spread the word to be praying for you and Bowen and those precious girls who must be very concerned.

Dear Matt and Sarah,
Though I don’t personally know you, my heart is aching with you today as I recall the days of uncertaintly we faced with our own son Nathaniel years ago. A dear mutual friend of ours, Lisa, from KLOVE contacted me asking us to pray for you.
I know that life is a blurr at the moment and you feel completely out of control and helpless….most likely exhausted physically, mentally and even spiritually…I want to encourage you that God will give you the strength to get thru these difficult hours. When we were at our lowest moments, somehow God’s grace embraced us and made up the difference. He gave us the strength we didn’t have. Try to remember that He will not give you more than what you can bear with Him…lean on Him… let the prayers and love of God’s people carry you when you are too worn and tired to do so yourself.
And above all… Hang unto Hope…it is an anchor to your soul.
I just listened to you song Holding You …and cried. Yes, our Daddy is holding Bowen, just as He is holding you.
We are praying for you.
Hanging Unto Hope with you,
Marie

Sue

God has his healing hands on you little Bowen and His Will will be done. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. You are a very special family who has touched many a family with your life journey. I love to listen to Matt’s music, and his most recent song “Lead Me” has touched our family. It has helped us look at our family in a whole new perspective. God definately has you in the right place to Lead others to Him. I really enjoy seeing your little girls at church and can’t wait for you to bring your new addition Bowen home. He is loved by many. Prayer is powerful, just look at Jackson Shortridge. God doesn’t give you more than you can handle, he helps you draw closer to Him!! Miracles happen everyday, so hang in there and keep strong in you faith!!!!

Momma Mona

I just want you to know that my family and I are holding Bowen and your entire family in prayer. My husband and I were in a similar situation with our daughter Emma. There were several times I just threw myself down to my knees in prayer because I felt so helpless and didn’t know what else to do. My heart goes out to you.

Jamie Claycamp

We appreciate you taking the time to post updates! If there is one place it’s great to be boring it’s the NICU. I was never more pleased when my son was moved from what they called Cuties (but more like an acronym QT) meaning he had a single nurse who could not leave his room.
God thankfully never gives us more than we can handle. And a sick child makes you sooooo much more thankful for the miracle that once it’s happened to you and others around you seems “normal”, but is truely a miracle each and every time hundreds, if not thousands, of little things go right and a baby is born healthy without complications! I have faith that Bowen is in good and capable hands and the prayers and love he’s recieving will help him heal! Take the break to enjoy the other miracles in your life to recooperate your spirit for the journey that awaits you!

We continue to pray for your precious little Bowen. The first surgery is the hardest on their tiny bodies and I dropped to my knees when I read that last post. My little one almost didn’t make it past the stage 2 surgery, I remember watching the doctors surrounded him and NOTHING brings you to your knees faster than witnessing your sick baby holding on. Hugs to you both and to your entire family.

linda

I am praying always for your family and Bowen. I just was wanting to get everyone on here to join in a prayer at 7:05. The small town of Beech Grove Arkansas is having a revival with Brad Mount and Casey Johnson These men love the Lord, and on Bowens behalf we want everyone to lift this request up to our Lord and savior at 7:05 tonight God bless all in Christian Love

Steve

Julienne

Matt, Sarah… your words, Gods words, through you, His channel, have blessed so many and kept us strong and uplifted, guided and encouraged through many trial, tribulation and challenges that it seemed were full of dark shadows.
Please know that He is reaching out through those of us you’ve made a difference to and I can only hope that our prayers and words of comfort and healing are reaching you and lifting you the way you’ve both done for so many.
My first son, my second child, was called back to Gods lap after only nine days of being here with us and blessing so many with his story, his courage and the light of God that shone through his eyes.
My second son, underwent health challenges that had the Dr’s asking us to say our goodbyes, as we’d done once already with Stephen, our first son. God had other plans for Sean and he’s 15 this month and is such a huge part of my rock in this world. He’s a normal teenage boy, and has no idea how he touches so many lives with his light and smile.

We may not know if Bowen will stay and play with his sisters and bounce on your knee or rock to sleep on your chest, or if he’ll shine brightly and beautifully and then snuggle his cheek to the chest of God and forever rest on the heart that never stops loving.

We do know that God is working and loving, shining and comforting you as you go through these moments. God is in each of the Dr’s, the nurses, each person that touches you and yours during these moments and Bowen is truly blessed to have been gifted such an incredible Mother and Father as yourselves and two beauitul sisters that love him even beyond their understanding.

You are in my heart, in my prayers and surrounded by a love that knows no limits.
May Strength, Peace, and Healing be yours in each moment of this part of your journey and always.
Namaste’
Julienne
~A fellow parent and traveler on Spirit’s road~

Eddie & Jane Layton

We went through something like this 14yrs ago. Our 1st baby boy was born with a heart defect. We had begged God for him for 12 years. He had open heart surgery at 9 day old. We learned to pray for God’s Will, and for the Grace to accept His Will. Sometimes that is hard to do. Praying so hard for Our Heavenly Father’s comfort and Grace you and your family.

Haley

My family and I will be praying for little Bowen as the mother of a new baby girl I can’t imagine what you are going through. I know that God is with you through all of this and I pray that Bowen will fight.

Debbie & Patrick Kenedy

What a beautiful family you have… You are very blessed. Bowen is a BEAUTIFUL child of GOD. Even though we don’t know you please know you have been added to our prayer list…
May GOD wrap his arms around Bowen & the entire family… HE will keep him safe in HIS Care….
Your daughters are gorgeous also..
Much Christian Love & Prayers.
GOD BLESS & KEEP YOU ALL

Duchess72

My husband and I had a son in 2005 with Trisomy 18. It is terminal. I carried him full term even though the dr. told us he’d only live one minute. He was going to be born with 3 chambers in his heart instead of 4. We were told that he had so many things wrong with him that any surgery would take precious time away from us being with him, and he might not make it through any surgery. We chose to just love him until God was ready to take him back home. I had prayed for months for more time with him, for him to see us, feel our touch and hear our voices.
God not only gave us more time, (promised only a minute), but we got 16 hours with our angel. God answered more than that prayer that summer, but that’s for my book I want to write. (My husband and I had been separated for 4 months up to the date Casey was born.)
If God can answer MY prayers, a little ole girl from Southwest Ohio, He can answer yours, too. Whatever you’re praying for with Baby Bowen, I trust that you are trusting God, just as I finally learned to and did, and praise Him through it.
What’s crazy about this story of yours is in addition to my baby having a heart problem like Bowen has, my maiden name is Bowen.

eileen jennings

Monique

God is the mighty Physician. Reading over all the comments it occurs to me how one life affects so many others. From Jesus to little Bowen to a person who posts a comment here. We are all brothers and sisters in Christ and a strong community. Your precious son has already touched so many in his 4 days. Thank you for inviting us all in and allowing us to pray for you and encourage you as it seems we have all encouraged each other as well. God bless you and keep you.

Crystal Willis

Charity

I heard about your family this morning on KLOVE. As I had heard before the birth of your son the struggle you would face (on the same station) I had been praying for you all. God is good. I continue to pray, not only for your son’s health but that you might feel His loving arms around you during this time.

Deanna R.

Matt and Sarah and kids, We are all praying for you down here in Indianapolis. I remember well the 3 months, my oldest Josh spent in NICU. Be kind to yourselves, rest when you can. Hug the girls and enjoy the moments with Bowen. What a great name by the way! Congrats on the birth of your little baby boy. Peace and healing, Your cousin

Daniel

Cindy

Please know my family and I are praying for little Bowen and your family. The power of prayer is an awesome thing, Matthew 18:20 tells us “For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.” The Good Lord saved our little girl. When the Dr.’s couldn’t figure out her diagnosis He interceded! She was 16 months old when she had brain surgery. She is 17 years now and has special needs but she is such a blessing to everyone she meets. She is our gift from God!
He chose us to be their parents whether it is a short time or as long as we live. Always remember how special that makes you in His eyes. My heart goes out to you and your family. We will faithfully be in pray for little Bowen. God blless you.

Sonia

We are praying for Bowen and your precious family… We went through a similar situations with our son, he had a VSD and had to have surgery before he could come home… We diffently understand how important prayer and faith is… GOD Bless your family always

Debra Hallock

I was fortunate to be introduced to your music when you played in Chandler, AZ this year. I came early and was in the Q & A. Listening to you speak touched my heart and when I heard “Lead Me” I knew you had something special – a transparent heart for the Lord. It takes a man of conviction that can share his heart this way and I can only imagine how that song has touched lives. I know these days are hard and uncertain but keep doing what you are doing – hold on tight to those that love you, stay in the Word (even it’s a verse at a time, and keep a small notebook close so that you can write down anything that gives you comfort. I am 52 years old and farther down the road than you – we had a difficult birth with one of our children and walked with our adult daughter during a 2-year health ordeal. It was during this time I learned that even in the darkest of times, we are never alone; He is right there with us. We don’t have the answers and we walk sometimes minute by minute trusting Him. Anyway just wanted you to know that I started praying as soon as I heard the news yesterday on the radio and I’m thanking God ahead of time for His blessing to you and your family and especially this sweeet son of yours.

Jeannette

We are adding our prayers to many that God has his hand on all of you as we know He loves and cares for His children, may you find strength in knowing so many prayers are going up on your behalf. Bless you, as you have blessed us with your music

I know exactly how you feel but God is good and will allow to handle the current situation. I questioned why something like this happened to me when I did everything right. My husband and I had a little girl who was born on 2-4-04. It was Friday, February 13th at 10:10 pm she died. The nurses began to bag breathing for her. She was born with a many heart defects – ventricular septal defect, corctation of the aorta and congential heart anomaly. She was baptized on 2-14-04 becasue they didn’t think she would live to make the next transport to the Sioux Falls Hospital. We flew to Sioux Falls and the doctors said you need to fly to Ann Arbor, MI to have the heart surgery. We flew home on 3-4-04 she was one month old. She had Dr. Eric DeVaney perform her surgery and with alot of prayers she now has yearly checkups. She is doing excellent and I pray that this will be baby Bowden future! It really strengthened my christian faith and seeing our little girl today she is complete miracle and Jesus healed her!! Keep praying and when you aren’t strong enough to we will pray for you and your family!! God Bless You!

Sarah Pirolli

Still praying and believing that God is going to deliver miracle after miracle into your lives and for your little one. Glad to hear that Bowen is stable, what a blessing. Be encouraged. Praying that God would give you courage, strength, and comfort in the days to come. You are loved.

Cindy

James

Thank God for His provision! My wife and I were where you are in Feb. Our son Evan was 11 mos. old and had open heart surgery to fix a congenital heart defect. The docs said he wouldn’t live, but he is a happy healthy 18 month old with an attitude to match! God is soooo good. We’re praying for you and baby Bowen. Ps. 23

Shannon Jackson

God can do all things. In 2004, My youth pastor fell 18 feet from scaffolding and landed on his neck. He was a quadrapalegic after the accident. But thanks to God’s hand directing his care, therapy, and doctors and holding pastor in His arms…my pastor is WALKING!!!! I am so gratefull I got to witness His miracle first hand! I have faith that Baby Bowen is going to begin to thrive!!!! God can do ALL things!!! You are all in my prayers!

Elizabeth Kamm

I heard about your precious boy a few days ago on K-Love. And I stopped today during the “Hold my Heart” song they played on K-Love and took the time during the whole song and lifted up your baby in prayer. I just wanted you to know that I don’t know you guys but I am praying for you all!

Susan Ottie Parker

Praying for your peace and understanding. It’s very tough to be by a loved one’s side and feel so helpless to do anything, but prayer is powerful. You have so many brothers and sisters praying for you all. God is good…always.

Lauren

Natalie Edwards

I am lifting Bowen up to our Heavenly Father. I am laying him at our Father’s feet. I will be praying for Bowen and the rest of you. We have a 5 month old who was born with HRHS. My husband and I watched as he headed into cardiac arrest 3 days out of surgery. I know your pain all too well and I know the hurt, the why’s and the cries out to God. Penn is 5 months old is doing great. He is an absolute blessing and a complete miracle. I speak healing and life over Penn everyday and I will do the same for Bowen. I am a strong believer in the power of our words, so therefore I am thanking God in bringing healing into him. I pray God pours out his peace over you both and praying for the medical team taking care of him that there wisdom comes from God alone. Penn was born in March and we were in the hospital (PICU & NICU) total 6 weeks. I hung this Jer. 29:11 on his bed. Praying God blesses your family more than you can imagine.
All our love and prayers,
Natalie & Justin Edwards
KY

Undisclosed

I will spread the word to a prayer network in my area. Praying for you constantly. I’m so, so, so sorry. You can make it through this, and so can your precious baby boy. He can hear your voice, he knows who you are–don’t hesitate to talk to him, touch him if you can. He needs your love and support to keep struggling. Even if he is in a coma, your presence can help. Stay strong, and don’t lose hope. Our God is a Loving God. He will not let you down.

Monesha McDonald

I just wanted to say that I am praying for your family and your son. I know this much be such a difficult time, but also a time where God can really show himself. Thank you for sharing your heart doing this time. It is definitely helping me to understand that the world is bigger than me; and also to thank God for the privilege I have of raising my son. Thank you and God bless.

Lisa Hoewing

May God cotinue to give you the strength that you need to get through this trial with Bowen. We have been in a similar situation with our son. He spent 2 months in the NICU and it started as a roller coaster ride with the up and downs of good and bad days. We are praying that God will continue to keep Bowen on the path of healing and that you will have uneventful days as he continues to recover from his surgery. I teach 2nd grade at a Christian school, my students are praying for your son too. Our classroom theme verse is Joshua 1:9 Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” He is always with you and will continue to walk beside you on this health journey with your son.
May God continue to richly bless your family!

Lonni

I wanted to let you first know that we’re praying for you from Denver, CO, but also (I hope this will encourage you), I’m an RN and worked in a pediatric cardiac ICU taking care of little babies like Bowen for several years. We’ve seen many children through the years with these kind of defects, and unfortunately, HLHS kids have a touchy time after surgery. God is greater, and we’ve seen so many come through with flying colors. I can’t imagine how overwhelming this must seem to you right now, but I just want you to know that there are many families that have gone before you with this and I encourage you to seek them out and draw strength from God and from each other. I can’t imagine what so many of these families feel without Jesus by their side – and my prayer is that even in the time of your greatest sorrow and need God will pour his love in you and through you to the lost, hurting, and lonely that are in similar circumstances.

I’m sure you have a great team working with you there and helping to explain everything going on, but if you ever need a listening ear, or more info about HLHS, what to expect, etc. please feel free to email me.

Erica hetrick

I am so happy to read that your boy is hanging on today due to Gods grace. I am a NICU nurse and too often I’m standing bedside praying as families go through what your family is now. Although I understand all the medical machines and language, the most important message I give familes is pray and trust. I pray very hard that Gods plan for your baby boy is a speedy recovery and miracle story for the rest of his life!

Melodee

Anni

Dear Matt and Sarah, I’m a mom and tears come to my eyes just imagining what you’re going through. The only thing I can tell you is that, as difficult as it is, try to leave everything in God’s hands. If it’s His will to heal precious Bowen, his heart will be in perfect condition. Tell God that Bowen is His and that He is His Father. My mom said those words four years ago when our two-month daughter wasn’t breathing and He gave her back to us. Our prayers are with you. Love, Anni

Dawn Stacy

While I was walking my dog today intown Perrysburg, your family came to my mind. I know that God whispered to me to pray. So as I was walking in the beautiful sunshine, I prayed to the Father that He would glorify Himself through Bowen and that peace, love and healing would be felt through your entire family. God Bless you for sharing God with the world!!!

Tammy

Praying for you and your blessed little one. Life support is not end stage for a newborn like it is adult. Neworns are very resilient and this just allows there body to grow and heal without using any precious energy. God has given man much technology and your little one will be saved and he will be a part of your testimony, at your side as you teach about the love of Jesus and his tender care for the littlest of these. Please keep us updated. I had children born very premature and the nicu experience truly is a moment by moment time in your life. One bad day is not the end, things can turn around so quickly take heart. God has taught us to live one day at a time, he will give you the strength to walk through this valley, like Mac Powell says “we must go through the valley to stand upon the mountain with God”. I too watched my son “code” it will take a long time to get that image out of your mind, one day you will be able to think about it and marvel at where God has brought him from.

Teena and Mary Leverenz

Sarah, Matt and family….we are both praying for you all. I know what you are going through, sometimes recoop takes a little longer for such small people. Hang in there… I will be checking the website constantly. Our love and prayers to you.

Jessica Mitchell

I just want you to know that my church family is keeping little Bowen and your family in our prayers. We pray that God will give you the strength to make it tbhrough this difficult time. We pray for his fast recovery. May God bless you and your family.

I have been praying for little Bowen and your family every since I heard…May the lord bless you and you family and watch over you thru these difficult times, and may he give you peace to know that he will be taking care of little Bowen and watching over him so that he will come over this bump in his short little life..May he be blessed..

jessica

Craig Whitley

I was deeply touched when I heard about your precious baby boy Bowen last week on K-Love. As a Father I felt the need to immediately begin praying for Bowen and for God to cover him, the doctors and both you (Matt) and Sarah with his peace, grace and spirit. I am praying that the Lord work through the hands of the doctors and nurses providing care to your loving son. I want your entire family to know that people all around this world are praying for Bowen and your family. I am in Glendale, Arizona and I am sending my prayers and thoughts throughout this difficult period. As you know, the Lord is wrapping his loving arms around Bowen, you and Sarah. He is always there, providing comfort and grace. My life has been a difficult one, but through the grace of God I have endured numerous hardships and I have always relied upon Phil. 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ which strengthen me”. I pray that the Lord strengthens Bowen’s heart as each minute and hour progress. Your son is in my heart and prayers… May God surround you and your entire family through this time. — May God Bless You, Sarah and Bowen.

Marcy

Baby Bowen is in my prayers. May his precious little self show everyone in the hospital the wonderfull love of god. May he teach everyone faith, hope and Love with the miricals he will show the doctors.

Lauren

Just wanted to say that I’m praying for you!! My son Colin has HLHS also. He is now 6 and doing great!!! He is delayed due to some very major O2 desats, but is now walking and eating on his own!! It is a long road to travel, but it is SO worth it! The “heart world” is a rough one, but one with many, many supporters who will reach out to you when you need it and pray for you constantly. God bless!!!
Millie and Colin-HLHS

Maria E Hidalgo

Christina

We have been praying for him today, will continue to pray for him. We are actually just outside Ann Arbor, I go to school there, and take my kids to U of M for their care. If that is where you all are at, it is a great hospital. Please let me know if you need any close-by prayer warriors to come up there and pray! Me & my mom would be happy to do so. I can’t imagine what you all are going through, but know The Lord is with you every step.

Anita

That is good news. I hope and pray that things continue to go well throughout the week. Prayers also being said for you, your son, your family, the doctors, and nurses from a mom of a CHD/ECMO baby. <3

Stephen Broden

After watching my newphew go through his surgeries for the same heart condition this is one thing I am certain of, which is that God will be there for Bowen. My nephew, Colin, is coming up on his final open heart surgery and I know that God is helping him grow stronger everyday. Be blessed with the gift God has provided you and please know your family will be in my families prayers.

Debra Watts

tamara

so sorry about what you are going through. it is exhausting, i know. i have a daughter who was born with a heart defect(tof) and had open heart surgery. thankfully she is able to live a normal life now. we had it so easy cpmpared to some other families! my prayers go out to you and your family. god bless!

Lauren Colley

Rose Wilson(Wilcox)

praying, praying and more praying, may God be with you all and give you the strength for every single moment that is trying you and your family right now, He is with you and will pull you through, and even farther then where you have already come, how blessed are you all to be such great vessels for Him,,,,continually in this Wilson family’s prayers….

Aimee

I have LOVED Sanctus Real ever since I first heard them a few months ago. For the last few weeks I have been meaning to post for everyone to check out the song “lead me” on my FB page, but for some reason I just kept forgetting. Today as I was listening to the song on my way to drop my little girl at preschool, when the DJ started telling about your baby boy and my heart sank! I came home and finally posted on my page! I couldn’t believe how many people said they too have been touched by this song. I have two little girls almost the same ages as you and twin baby boys who just turned one. As I rocked my boys tonight, I cried out- literally to the Lord for you and your sweet family! I prayed for forgiveness for not appreciating my perfectly healthy children and for peace and understanding for you as you go through this season with Bowen. May he be a true miracle of what the Lord can do, and may his life impact more than you ever imagined. Many many thoughts and prayers for you tonight.

VB

I cannot even imagine what you are going through. My prayers are with Bowen as with all of you. K’Love’s encouraging word today. “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”(Ephesians 2:10 NLT)…so hold on to this verse for God has a plan for Bowen too. May you find strength and hope through our Precious Lord and all your friends, family and praying friends lifting you up to the Lord, for God is Good, All the Time. Be strong and know we care and would be there physically, always know, there’s no distance in prayer.

Kane Staines

Matthew,
I just want you to know that everything will be alright, because tonight your precious little boy is safely cradled in the hands of the Father. Our Almighty God is always in control, even during those times when it appears not. My wife and I had a similar experience a year ago with our baby girl, Alley Claire. She was born 13 weeks premature. I spent night after night staring down into a climate-controlled isolette, wondering if this 2.5 lb. miracle would ever come home. For 54 long days and nights, I thanked God for blessing our lives with this precious baby, but I also asked Him to protect her through every step of her journey. Many times, it felt like I was praying to God in Heaven, but in all actuality He was right beside us in the NICU the entire time. As hard as it was to leave my baby girl each night, I found comfort in knowing that Jesus was with her 24/7. As a daddy I understand the anxiety you and your wife are dealing with right now. Just continue to be strong buddy, because if I learned nothing else from our experience I did learn one unwavering lesson. Those tiny miracles have more fight in their pinky finger than their tough ole’ daddies have in their entire body. God is still in the miracle business. Living proof is sitting on my lap as I type this message; all 22 lbs. Our father will never leave us nor forsake us. Your family, and especially your baby boy are in our prayers.
Love in Christ,
Kane, Lanie and Alley Claire Staines

I read about your family on Sarah’s Clover Lane. I am the mother of two little girls who were born with congenital heart defects. The youngest was born with HLHS, one of the physical manifestations of the rare chromosome abnormality that she had. I understand a little of what you are experiencing right now, so my heart goes out to you and I am praying for all of you.

I will also tell you that the times I’ve spent at my daughters’ hospital bedsides were not only exhausting and often frightening, they were also the most sacred experiences of my lifetime. I gained a greater understanding of the incredible love our Heavenly Father has for us, His children, when I had to watch my own children suffer. Suddenly, I realized what it meant for the Father to allow His Son to suffer and die for the rest of us. I have to believe that he wouldn’t ask these other sweet children, like your Bowen, to go through such difficult challenges in this life without a greater purpose.

The oldest of our two heart babies will be turning 7 years old next month. She had her second open heart surgery over a year ago. Now that she is old enough to verbalize her experiences, she has been able to share with us some of the special comforts that she has been given when she has been through her most trying times. Truly, angels minister to these children. I believe my daughters have been, at times, cradled in the arms of our Savior. When she was a very little girl, our daughter pointed to a painting of Christ and told us, “Look, there is Jesus! That’s what He looks like when He is my doctor.”

Christy B.

My husand and I are praying for your sweet baby boy and for the both of you! Remain strong in our precious Lord! He is our rock and our salvation! Keep the Faith!!! He loves you and he will never leave you nor forsake you! He promises that!!! God bless!

Bowen – listen up little man, you just rest right now and let those machines do their job so you can heal. I bet you just might have a warmer light above your bed. If you do, just dream big dreams about beaches, sandcastles and the ocean that sings your own lullaby with its rolling waves.

Rest – that is all you have to do now so you can be ready to keep Mommy and Daddy on their toes with a lot of middle of the night feedings!

I just want you to know that you are in my prayers. I can completely understand how you are feeling, as I have spent many long nights by my sons bedside when he was a baby. Wondering and praying. God answered my prayers, my son is now 17 and doing well. I pray that God will be as gracouis with you. Please know that you have a world praying with you. God Bless your family.

Carol

felica beers

I had a baby girl with hlhs who would be 9 this year, she had norwood stage 1, and did well after surgery, but unfortunatly contracted a staph infection in the hospital and died at 6 weeks old, so your story is so easy for me to relate to, the rollercoaster ride of good news/bad news…. praying for your family and precious son.

Leslie Veronee

Angie

Jennifer

You are in my thoughts & prayers! God willl carry him in his arms and carry you through it as well. This doctor is a wonderful doctor, one of the best, my parents drove from Hillsboro, Ohio for me to have open heart surgery with him. Will be praying for your son, you and your family!

Kacie

My husband and I are lifting you and baby Bowen up to the feet of Jesus. I pray that “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7 Even when we can’t possibly understand we can rest assured that God’s ways are greater than our ways. Bowen’s heart is in the very hands of our great and Awesome God. “And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up.” James 5:15 Praise the KING!

SandyB

My prayers are with you. My daughter Jayden underwent almost an hour of chest compressions and went on ecmo. Seeing my baby girl undergo chest compressions is something I will never forget. The feelings… the emotions… no one else can understand. I have been praying for Bowen for several weeks and I will continue to pray for your precious baby boy.

Tammy Burgoon

As soon as I found out today (saw it on Facebook from KLOVE’s post), I began praying. Your music has been a blessing to me and I am honored to pray for your son and family. God does know the pain you are going through and His grace is sufficient to bring you through. You will be in my prayers continually.

vincent marez

Keep the faith ! i had a heart defect when i was born and the doc said my chances were not great but here i am. Three heart surgerys and 29 years later here i am to say our God is bigger and is so good and faithful. will be praying for ya God Bless !

Amy

My heart goes out to you both. I can only imagine how difficult this has been. Praise God you both know He is in control and little Bowen is in His care. We have five boys and have had difficult pregnancies,births,birth defects and surgeries. Certainly nothing like you all are dealing with,but I have a little understanding. Praying for you all. Praying God will carry your son thru this. We know not His plan,but can trust Him with all things!
Love to you all,
Amy

Kimi

May God protect your hearts, minds and eyes! May refreshment come supernaturally through literally seconds that you are given between standing by Bowen’s beside. May you fell God’s hands stregthening you and holding you up during this time. I too have seen what you are seeing. My daughter had a cardiac cath and open heart surgery at age 2.5 yrs of age and needed to be placed on an ECMO machine. Please know that even in this God is glorified in you in ways you can’t even forsee,as you press into Him and hide in the shelter of His wings as we all pray you through this! Grace, peace and love to you all!

Elaine Droessler

You are a beautiful inspiration for many! So here’s a bit of inspiration for you from His Word:
Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Amy

My little just turned 5 year old got in the car after school today and told me that she told her teacher about Baby Bowen and his surgery. Imagine the prayers going up for you guys from the people like us who have never even met you…how much God must be hearing petitions from his people…many with little Bowen’s name in them!

Laura

Amanda

So thankful that you are having reasons for hope tonight!! We were talking about your family today on the ride home from school, and our heart baby, Maggie, got very upset because I kept saying, “The baby…” because she heard about Bowen on the radio and remembered his name. Almost brought me to the ugly cry, driving down the street, that our little CHD girl was so determined that we call him by name. OF COURSE she was right, so we will now be following Bowen’s website instead of “the baby’s.” We will continue to pray for all of you!!

Jennifer

I am continuing to lift Bowen and your family up in prayer as well as asking radio listeners in SD, ND, WY, and NE to do likewise. My heart breaks that you had that terrifying moment of watching them work on him. I remember them telling me when my Lucy had her heart repair that they could turn her room into an operating room in minutes and how scary that sounded. I pray God would provide for your peace, your hope, your faith, and your practical needs. And I pray that your girls would be protected from the scary parts as much as they can be. Hang in there.

Debbi Brown

Just wanted you to know many of us at FamilyLife are keeping each other posted as to specific prayer concerns as we hear and keeping each of you lifted before the Lord.

Some of my prayers of thanks & petitions:

I thank the Lord for this precious blessing He has given you, for the thousands of brothers & sisters by The Blood coming together across the world with like voices, sharing this opportunity to lift a brother, sister, and their family before The Throne, for the new brothers & sisters who will come to know, accept His gift of salvation, & love Him, and especially for Our Father who is in control!

I am praying that Jehovah Rapha, will touch Bowen’s heart and make it as new, make it strong, and heal it from the inside out. That each day that passes, Bowen will gain more and more strength and his story and life will be a testimony to countless of our Father’s grace and love, that is more than sufficient, more than any of us deserve.

For you & Sarah, I pray for quiet times to feel His presence with you & to be enveloped in His love, for stamina, restorative rest, good health, comfort, calm, peace that truly does pass all understanding, joy, laughter, time to gather your thoughts, special times to spend with each other & your daughters. I also pray for speedy recovery & healing for Sarah.

For your daughters, I pray for loving, encouraging friends & family to care for them while you are with Bowen, for a maturity beyond their years to understand, for laughter and joy, for special times to share with you, for the feeling of freedom to ask questions & voice their fears, and for answers that they can understand and will calm those fears.

For the doctors, nurses, and other caregivers, I pray for their total reliance on our Father for the insight, wisdom, and abilities they need to meet and take care of Bowen’s needs.

Diane Fox

I was just introduced to your web-site by a friend of mine who follows you. I am the mother of a child born with CHD. My son is now 13 years old and his name is Parker Matthew. We chose his middle name for the same reason you did. We are praying for your sweet little boy. You are in FANTASTIC hands with Dr. Bove and U of M. Dr. Bove is the man with HLHS. I just know that Bowen will be in your arms soon smiling up at you. These children are so strong. Keep your faith and thank you for taking the time to update. When you are ready, there is a great online group that saved me when Parker was a baby. It is called PDHeart and you can find it at tchin.org. It is an online support group where you can get questions answered, talk to those who are and have gone through the same thing and get lifted up. We pray for Bowen’s healing and for strength for you all.

Tammi T.

We will continue to pray. We know what you are going through is hard to express, especially to others who haven’t been there. Each experience is unique but since our son is HLHS, we know some of what you are experiencing. Philippians 4:4-8 really helped get me through (along with a lot more of God’s Word and His people.)

Terri Novotny

Heard about Bowen on K-Love, then on Coles Foundation. Been praying for your sweet, baby boy since I heard he was having surgery. May God hold you close as you go through this difficult time. Praying for a full recovery for Bowen.

Amy

I am praying for your little man Bowen and your family. When I heard the update this morning it broke my heart. I had a cousin who was born w/ serious heart problems over 30 years ago and had 4 open heart surgeries by the time he was 6. The dr’s said he would never be able to be “a normal kid”. Boy did he go above and beyond all their imaginations. He lived to be 21 and never spent anytime being down and not living life to the fullest. I am keeping you in prayer and praying God’s will be shown to you during this time.

Jenni

My prayers are with Bowen and your family. I heard his story today on K-Love. My son was on a heart lung bypass machine called ECMO (extra corporeal membrane oxygenation). I remember the sleepless nights in the NICU and the many prayers for him. He is a wonderful, healthy 15 year old now. Please know you have many people praying for you and baby Bowen.

Mia

I saw you at Heavenfest in Co this summer and was so touched by your honesty and openess about your struggles and how God has brought you and your family through. When I heard about your baby boy, I immediately start praying for God’s peace and understanding for you all. He is an absolute angel and is here for a purpose, and has already touched so many hearts out there. Hang in there, and know God is always in control, even when we do not understand why things happen the way they do. Thank you for sharing about this so we can all pray and support. Bowen Matthew- a name with a purpose and meaning!

Brandi

Marsha Harwood a friend and Missionary to the Snowbird Indians. posted your video and this .com today. I have been praying for Bowen and your family all day. So glad to hear he is doing better tonight. We have 2 daughters that are NICU nurses here in GA. one for 19 yrs. and 1 for 28 years. Those nurses love the parents so much and their babies and pray over them….Will pray for your med. team especially the nurses . I sent your video, “Lead Me” to Matt to our young pastor, Matt who is also our lead singer songwriter as you are. He and his wife were given 6 months off to restore their marriage. It did! They also have 2 little girls as you do. Thought he might us it in his ministry. Roswell Community Church. Roswell ,GA. Thank you for sharing.

Steve

Matt & Sarah,
We just want you to know that we are praying fervently for Bowen and for you guys! Also, everyone who prayed for Tucker during his rough times are praying too. Please try to rest and take care of yourselves, even though it is probably the last thing on your minds, your health is so important to Bowen.
We love you guys!
Trent, Dena, & Tucker Hamiltonhttp://www.caringbridge.org/visit/tuckerhamilton

Branden & April Deschaine

I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD, Psa 118:17. This is the verse laid on our pastor’s heart by the Lord as he was given 3 months to live by the doctors. They said pancreatic cancer has a 97% mortality rate and yet God erased every visage of that disease from every scan they can throw at him. Today he stands cancer free as a living testament to what God will do if you offer him your faith and prayer. Doctors tend to get too wrapped up in this facade presented to us as reality by the enemy. They have no idea how big our God really is, nor what He is capable of. In fact, you should be planning the victory celebration because thanks to Jesus’ sacrifice, we Christians have the exclusive luxury of being able to “count our chickens before they’re hatched”, so rejoice! We ask the Lord to bestow upon you peace, strength, patience and support as we all await his perfect miracle to unfold before our very eyes. We ask these blessings in Jesus’ name as this family is covered by His blood and healed by his stripes Amen.

The Randolphs

We are lifting up little Bowen to the Mighty Healer. We are also praying for the two of you, your daughters, family and for the medical staff who are taking care of your precious boy. With love from San Antonio!!

she

The Gleason's

We are following Bowen’s story daily and praying for the Lord to keep you all in His tender loving arms–to lift you up and give you the strength for each new day. The TCS family is keeping you uplifted in prayer as well.

Debi Branscum

Praying for you and your precious family…each one of you. God is always with you, giving you strength and leading you with Strong Hands! I will continue to be in prayer for you, Sarah, Bowen and your beautiful daughters. You have been such a blessing to so many of us, I just want to say thank you Matt! May God bless you many times over for all you do. I pray for a strong heart for little Bowen and that you will soon be holding him in your arms, I pray for Sarah good health and a speedy recovery, I pray your daughters loving care while you are away from them with Bowen, I pray for yours and Sarahs parents, I pray God continues to guide the hands of the doctors, nurses, I pray for you to be able to get much needed rest and that quality time with your family. Thank you for keeping us updated and please know you are in our prayers!

I just wanted you to know that we had a son Jarrett born with a heart defect known as TGA (transposition of the great arteries). He was not diagnosed in-utero so his CHD was not discovered until his birth. God placed a wonderfully amazing medical staff in our hospital’s NICU to diagnose him, stabilize him, and get him to a facility in Atlanta that was better equipped to handle his needs. It was there that we met a very special family who had a son Hunter born with HLHS just days before our son. Both boys had open-heart surgery at four days old. It was a very stressful and exhausting time in our lives and our mutual faith in Christ was the only thing that brought us, our boys and our families through it. Even after ten years, we look back and see how God worked in every moment. It really is mind-blowing. I wish I had time to share our whole story but please know that we understand exactly what you are going through and join the thousands of others who are praying for Bowen, his doctors and your entire family! God bless!

Nancy

Praying for you and your family!!!
Father God please be with this family this very minute, please let them feel your peace and your love like never before. God you are an awesome God. Please allow precious Bowen to get stronger and allow him to come out of this rough and scary time. Please God watch over him and heal him with your healing hands.
Give their family the strength to make it thru each minute, each second of the day! You always give us the grace we need at exactly the right minute and time we need it most!
We love you Father and ask for your COMPLETE healing of baby Bowen, give the doctors and nurses guidance in treating him.
We thank you for who you are and what you do for us daily!
Help HOPE to rise in our hearts
In your precious name we pray these words, Amen

I love you and your family and don’t even know you but thru God we are brothers and sisters in Christ and I want to lift you up to Him

Laurie

Amanda Walker

Your family has been in our prayers for the past week. I just heard of Bowen’s condition last week, a day before he was born. When they read your dad’s email on KLOVE this afternoon, I nearly had to pull over. The images it brought to mind made we weep. I cried out to Jesus from my car, and I know many others did as well. Whatever God’s will for Bowen Matthew is, I am grateful for the chance to have been able to pray with so many other believers for him. Your family will continue to be in our prayers. May you rest in God’s blessed assurance. The Walker family

Wendy Solomon

I know it hurts. I know you are going through something nobody else understands. I am so sorry you have to hurt and watch and wonder. I know that the end will not look the same as the beginning. I don’t know if you will ever understand why… but I hurt with you and love with you… and will Praise the Lord beside you no matter what. Though He brings grief He will show compassion so great is His unfailing love. Lam. 3

Amanda Stieg

Paula Askew

My prayers are with you all. It breaks my heart to hear your story. I have 3 healthly kids of my own and I couldn’t imagine the pain and agony you all are going through. I’m sure you all are right though God has a plan he always does. Even in hard times we have to put our trust in him. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Reading through Bowen’s story reminded us of what we went through 10 years ago with our son Philip. I just want to encourage both of you to stay strong and be assured that God is with you. Philip has had 17 surgeries and is still going strong. He had so many holes in his heart that the doctors couldn’t count them, but one day – just like that – after a lot of prayers – ALL THE HOLES CLOSED BY THEMSELVES!!! We serve a God who is a healer.

Don’t stop believing in God. Don’t ever stop believing in His greatness. God bless you guys. Philip’s story is on our website http://www.lovewithoutreason.org. May God bless you with his testimony.

linda vargas

I pray for your son bowen…that the Lord will be with the drs and make him whole again….i pray for your family for peace and comfort….i pray for a miracle from God…..trust in the Lord and he will provide….i will pray for your son for a full recovery….thanks linda

Tiffany Ford

Lots of prayers and peace coming your way!!! I have a very dear friend in Nashville whose son was born with HLHS as well. He is now 6 almost 7 I do believe. He had a heart transplant in 2008. I would love to put you guys in touch with one another, if you would be interested. They can definately enlighten you to the struggles and triumphs that lie ahead for your family and Bowen. Once again all our prayers and blessings to you. May God bless you and comfort you and give you the peace to make it through this difficult beginning.
~in His service
Tiffany Ford

Tara Delk

I am so sorry for what you guys are going through. I can’t even imagine the pain and heartache you guys are going through. I will continue to pray for you guys and your family through this tough time. We just need to remember that we have an awesome God that is always there for us and never will forsake us. He will lift you guys up through this tough time and until then I will continue to pray for you guys and my church family will as well! My heart is breaking right along with you guys! BUt good news will be here soon! God Bless you guys and many prayers are headed your way!

Linda Romano

I don’t even know you and your family, but feel so connected to you. I find myself thinking about you and baby Bowen often during the day and wondering how you all are doing and lifting up prayers. I stand with Nancy (above) and her prayer for you. I couldn’t say it any better.

Hello,
I too am a parent of an HLHS baby. She is going to be one on Friday! I know how scary things are right now, and I pray that all goes well for baby Bowen. He already sounds like he is a fighter, as do his parents! I pray God will raise you up in His grace, and bring you peace as you travel this road. If I can be of any assistance in any way, please let me know. In His name… Amy

Kathy S.

I read thru most of these blogs with tears in my eyes & a heavy heart. I cannot even imagine what you are going thru. I will continue to pray for all of you & baby Bowen. May God hold all of you in His care!

Galyn Reese

Matt and Sarah, I just wanted to let you know that you are not alone. My middle daughter, Aspen, was born with five congenital heart defects. HLHS is one of her defects. Aspen has had a roller coaster of a ride as well. The first three weeks of her life we tumultuous. She was too unstable the first week to perform the first surgery, the second week she crashed and became a vegetable, and at the end of the second week we took her off of life support to give her back to God. But God gave her back to us! All but one of the doctors said she would remain a vegetable and it was pointless to pursue surgery. Her heart surgeon said he believed in Aspen. We took her home on hospice only to see her improve. So after two weeks we returned to have her first surgery where they repaired her aorta and put in a shunt. Aspen has since had three more open heart surgeries. I have been told on numerous occasions that Aspen was dying. But God continues to step in and heal my little girl. Aspen was supposed to die when she was two weeks old, but she is now getting ready to turn seven. I have no idea how much longer I will have Aspen (she was diagnosed with degenerative heart disease three years ago), but thank God for each and every day I have her! I am praying for Bowen and have complete faith that God will give all of you the strength you need to get through this time.

Sara Hays

Just sending a prayer and lots of love your way….my heart is breaking for your family. God’s hand is upon little Bowen though and before you know it he’ll have those sisters of his chasing him around the house 🙂

Ladonna

Peggy

Praying for you and your family. Such a beautiful blessing from God. He knows the plans He has for you and your precious son. My heart aches for the pain you are going through. May you feel God’s arms wrapped around all of you!

Shannon A. Garcia

I just heard about your site today while listening to KLove, but want you to know you have one more person praying for you. I love what another person wrote about where medicine fails, God can over-rule. Amen! The lord will provide and through Him, ALL things are possible!
Love & Prayers.

Gwen Langford

Praise God he is doing well today. Keeping in constant prayer for Bowen’s healing and for your entire family. May God keep you all in the palm of His hands as He carries you through this very hard time. Just remember Phil. 4:13. God Bless you all as we all continually pray.

Cate

We are all praying for little Bowen and the rest of the family! These kinds of things are very difficult to get through, even for those with faith. I’ve friends with a teenage son who just came off life support, their faith is strong, along with the prayers and support of friends and family, they get through one day at a time! Some other friends just had twins, a boy and girl, that were born almost two months early and the little girl has a breathing problem, but like you, their faith in God is what gets them through! The common thread i find in all of this, is that both husband and wife are firm in their faith along with family members and friends, I believe this is how God intended it, that we should all come along side each other! Praying that Bowen will follow in his daddy’s foot steps one day and be a man of God! (Or maybe the lead singer in a band!)

Cheryl Estes

Heidi Ek

I’m praying for you and for Bowen. He is such an inspiration. Don’t lose faith or courage. Stay strong for your little boy and girls. The Lord is with your family and is with Bowen. He with give Bowen the strength and will to fight to stay. I believe that Bowen will do great things in his life.

“You grew weary in your search, but you never gave up. Desire gave you renewed strength, and you did not grow weary.” Isaiah 57:10

Chris & Sharon Stavig

Matt Sarah and family. My wife and I are praying for you. We had something similar happen to us and our little girl when she was born. During the 1st 48 hours she almost died 3 times. It was probably the most difficult… time in our life. Thanks to the Lord she is now 20 years old and doing fine!! Praise the Lord. I would like to share a little bit of our experience with you. We had given our daughter to the Lord before she was born, My wife and I both came to the Lord later in life so we wanted the best for our little girl, and wanted her to be raised in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. When she was born we were so happy and then about a minute later the nurses moved in and started working with our little girl, something was wrong, it turns out she had highland membrane disease. They took her to critical care. Things were not looking good. There was talk that she may not even make it. It was then that we realized that we had been given a gift in our daughter and when she was born we claimed her as our own, my wife said to me Chris we gave her to the Lord before she was born, and we have claimed her for ourself, she is the Lords we need to give her back to the Lord. That was hard, so we did we gave her back to the Lord and ……. put her back into his loving arms and hands not knowing what would happen. we just knew that whatever happened the Lord sitll loved us and our daughter, more than we even know. We are praying for you and your family. Psalms 139:17 How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! He is thinking about you all right now!!! Chris and Sharon Stavig

I know that there are no words that can make you feel better at a time such as this….no earthly words. Is it not a great comfort to know that we are able to rest in the arms of our Heavenly Father when all about us seems to be too much for us to bear!!! What a blessing!!! I am praying his comfort, peace and blessings upon your entire family at this time!!! You are such a blessing to so many, and I believe that God rewards this!! I pray that Bowen will be healed to His glory, as a testament to His power and love!!! My prayers continue!!!

Dave and Sharon Gartley

As I wrote my previous comment, I had the sudden unction to play my hammered dulcimer for little Bowen and for you all. I am here playing as the Holy Spirit leads me, praying, and knowing that God is at work.

Holly

I cried when I read the story of you and your family.. You guys seem like the best parents and the faithful to god and his plan even though it could hurt so bad. I am praying for you and hoping that one day I can have as much peace and faith as you guys do..

NiKia

Just wanted you to know that you are in my prayers. Your work has blessed me tremendously. I hope that my prayers bless you likewise. My husband and I went through a similar situation with our daughter, and I just want to express my love and support. God bless you all!

Kathy Boyd

Prayer is a powerful thing, and people are praying for you! Three years ago, our grandson was born with an undiagnosed heart defect, tetralogy of fallot with pulmonary atresia. When he was four days old, he had his first open heart surgery on a Monday, and by Tuesday, was placed on full life support. That time was very dark, but God was with us. After 8 days on ecmo, he had another open heart surgery and was able to come off ecmo. He had another surgery a year later, and will have more surgeries in the future, but today he is a strong, smart, healthy boy – his is our miracle. We are praying for peace for you in the midst of this storm.

Paam

We Are Marshalls

Wow, such a little heart touching so many other hearts. We are truly blessed. What an incredible revelation of the awesomeness and awareness of God the Creator. With our youngest son, Noah, we spent nearly a month in the NICU and watched God hold Him in His bossom the whole time while angels kept their watch. Today, he is a healthy, happy tantrum-throwing two year old. I pray that God gives you faith-filled strength, creates a joyful song in your heart and fulfills His Promise of the Pebble.

Every day is a fairy tale with God because He is the author of happy endings. Thank you for sharing your journey with us, we will never be the same. We look forward to the praise reports. God Bless Bowen!!!

jenney

We serve a faithful God and His hand is mighty to save, so we can trust Him with whatever happens in Bowen’s life! I know you know that, and that He holds you close. May His peace rule in your hearts while you wait on Him. You will never regret time spent trusting in Him!

I am a native of Ohio so I know exactly where your journey began. My daughter Faith who will be 8 on Monday also has HLHS so I know exactly where your journey has lead to. She had her first 2 surgeries at U of M and I know Dr Bove. I was told they did not think Faith was going to make it home after the first surgery but now just having her fontan this past April, is amazing and showing others just how awesome our GOD is. When I first found out I did not have the trust in the LORD as you already do. I questioned why me, why her?I have learned through the grace of GOD that HE does have a plan. A plan bigger than we can imagine. These children are blessed with a gift from GOD to carry out HIS work whether here on earth or in heaven. We are blessed parents that HE has chosen us to care for these amazing children. That HE sees strength, love and hope in us and entrusted us to be their parents not someone else. Bowen is a warrior filled with the strength of the Holy Spirit to do GOD’s will. My prayers to you, your family, your daughter’s whose life is turned upside down during all this uncertainty and prayers for Bowen-your little warrior.

Tracy

Melody

Lord, I just pray healing over Bowen’s heart and body. Lord, You have great plans for this little one!! Lord, I pray for Bowen’s family that they stay strong and focus on You. Nothing is impossible for You, Lord. You are an amazing God and sometimes You work mysteries ways, but we know that You are always in control. Oh, how we love You, Lord and how we will continue to lift up Your name through this rain. Amen

Stefanie Manes

We are praying for a divine healing for baby Bowen! As a new mother to a 2 month old precious baby boy, my thoughts and prayers are with Matt and Sarah right now as they face the next several days! Baby Bowen is a blessing indeed and we’ve appreciated the updates from K-Love today so that we can know what the status is and what to be praying for specifically.
God Bless this precious family!!

Landon

Our prayers are with you and continue with you. When our son was born he spend several weeks in the NICU. I cannot claim to know what you are feeling as you love each child diffrently and wonderfully from before birth, but I can say we have been there and we understand. Take strength in the Lord, because God is good.

Stephanie

I couldn’t wait to see an update! So glad to hear the good news. I cried and prayed for you guys this morning and will pray every time I think of you guys (which is a lot lately). I wrote on my blog this morning and posted a link to here so there might be a few more prayer warriors! Keep looking to the Lord for your strength and to find His peace and purpose in all of this!

Jill Schroeder

I can’t put into words how deeply touched I am by your story. I am praying for all of you and it is great to see Bowen is a fighter! I have a very similar story of my daughter, Kerri, who had open heart surgery at the age of 10 days. She too, made it through surgery but then needed to be resuscitated. I understand where you’ve been and what you are going through at the present and I wish I could just give you a comforting hug. I’m sure God is reaching around you all as you try to understand. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Dale VL

Heavenly Father, we come to you this day asking for your help. Father as you know, one of your sons Bowen is going through a trial that unites us in prayer for his health. Father without imposing our will over yours, we ask you to watch over Bowen during this difficult time in his short life. We thank you for all the souls that watch over him day and night, as they assist him in remaining strong while the doctors find the best path in helping his small and fragile body. We ask that you guide them with your great wisdom, that they choose the best and most helpful treatment for him. We ask that that he will remain strong in this life in the care you provide through your sons and daughters here on earth, and that he will continue to grow healthy.

Father we also ask that you watch over his mother Sarah and Father Matthew. Father I can not imagine their struggle on this day, and we pray that you provide them the strength to be there for each other and their two daughters Emmerson Mae and Claire Lillian. Unite them dear Lord, and bring them close to you as to empower them during this difficult time in their life.

Dear Father we thank you for hearing our prayers and it is in your name we ask these things.

We are humbled by your majesty, and cherish the life we are granted. Through your grace we receive the gift of each and every breath we take today and for this we are grateful.

“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.”- Romans 12:10

Jen Barnes

Just keep leaning on god every moment! Through the hard times to come, just look back and remember the day when your family was there holding him and you posted the pictures. Just stop and hold that day close to your heart and you will know you are so blessed! My kids and i will keep you in our bedtime prayers. I want to thank you for letting my kids and i be a part of your journey!

janet

Ellen

I am a pediatrician, and I can imagine the stress and anxiety that you must be feeling right now. God knew in advance that Bowen would need a special family, and he chose YOURS to be the one… the one for Bowen. Our prayers go up for you all, even if the miracle WE choose is not the miracle God chooses.

You can rest assured, that as of yet, you have been perfect parents. You have made no mistakes. Not many of us parents can say that! Keep praising thru the storm… May God bless you with His peace that passes all understanding.

May God use you as a light to the surgeons, the intensive care specialists, the nurses, the techs, the hospital staff. May HIS name be glorified thru little Bowen. May there be a miracle that can ONLY be explained thru God’s actions. I love it when we, doctors and hospital staff, witness healing that cannot be explained! I pray you have the opportunity to witness the doctors’ amazement…

Evelyn

This is so sad, my heart goes out to you and your family. I know that GOD is giving you all the strength you need to get through these hard times. GOD be with little Bowen and your family. God bless you.

Jennifer Talley

Our family has been praying for baby Bowen and your family. Even my small little children have remembered Bowen in their prayers. God bless you and your family to accept whatever God’s will is.
The Parkes Family

Praying for your AWESOME family 🙂 Love you all very much. WOW – I can only think of James 1:2-3. “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance” Looks like this test will unfold into a BOUNTIFUL testimony. Keep persevering Hammitt Family – God’s got you safe in his arms:-)!

Bethany

Praying for you guys through all of this that God’s peace would be in and around you and that the weighty presence of the Holy Spirit would cover you like a blanket as you walk through this. My heart hurts for you and yet I have hope in the power of God…
Blessings to you!

Dawn

I will keep your family in my prayers. I have a nephew who was born with the same condition, he is now doing wonderful. His last surgery was a little over a year ago and you would never know how ill he was when he was born. He is full of life and energy. I pray your son will someday amaze you the way my nephew has amazed my family.

Sing to him. Sing to him like he is in your arms at home. Sing over the beeping & sounds of the machines while stroking his forehead like gentle kisses. Let him feel the warmth of your skin against his face because he needs that touch, especially in the cold atmosphere of his room. Sing to HIM through the ears of your son like you’ve never sung before, if even in a small voice. HE will hear your heart and HE will answer your prayers. HE can heal all hearts, even the smallest most fragile ones.

In prayer for all of you,
Carolyn Peterson

BIO: My grandson Connor was born with 3 heart defects, no prenatal sonograms to catch it early and misdiagnosed until he was 4 days old. He should have never been a vaginal birth and his heart rate dropped below 40 twice during delivery.

Connor was born with an abnormally large VSD (lower two chambers were originally thought to be only one), an aortic coarctation (ASD) with a tissue buldge in the narrowing, and excess muscle tissue on the aortic valve keeping it from closing. His Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) had to be kept open to prevent full cardiac arrest until surgery could be done. At 7 days old, his ASD surgery went fine. He had to be revived on the open heart surgery a week later.

My church and many others were in constant prayer. He recovered miraculously fast, was home by a month old, and there was not even a need for heart meds after a couple of months which they anticipated he would need for the rest of his life. Your son can heal miraculously too if it’s God’s will.

It’s true your son’s condition is much worse than that of my grandson. My grandson’s parents however, are not Christian’s. I was their intersessor at Connor’s bedside. Your son has the advantage that you have a personal relationship with Him. If he it to remain with you, know that he will be peaceful in church every Sunday just as my grandson does thanks to your faith, prayers, and voice of song.

Alexis

Your family is very precious. I know it’s hard, but you guys have so much faith, support and prayers coming your way. It’s late right now, but you can bet that I will be sharing your story with everyone and asking for prayers. God is holding your hand as He guides you through this bumpy road. Prayers, prayers and more prayers sent out your way. God Bless.

jan

Robyn Schnitker

I’ve been thinking about you guys all day and praying constantly for healing, strength, faith..Matt you have touched so many with your music..myself included! And Sarah, you are such an inspiration for your strength and courage and your love for your family. God is with you all this minute surrounding you with his love and even though we don’t know his plans we can trust that every minute, every hour, and every day is a blessing from him. You are always in my prayers and may God bless you with continued strength and faith.

Allison

Rhonda

Our first born son was rushed off to NICU with heart problems right after his birth. I can remember just wanting to take him home and not being quite sure what to tell his siblings about why he couldn’t come home. Hearing about Bowen has taken me back to that day 15 years ago. Seth is now is a strong, healthy, handsome young man with a devoted love for our Lord! We are praying that 15 years from today you will be saying the same about your Bowen. God Bless your family during this time.

Cathy Collinson

I’m sure you’ll see, in nightmares, what you saw last night for a long time, but just try to stay positive and to transfer that positivity to Bowen. I know that’s easier said than done, but after all, whatever happens is God’s will. And he will be in the hands of God, regardless. God bless you all.

Scott

Jody Erickson

May God carry you through all you must do, all you must be, and all you feel. Allow faith, friends, and family to carry you, if and when you need that. God Bless you,your family, your medical team, and your path.

Tracy

I honestly do not have the words to express what I feel or even know what I can say but my family will be praying for all of you and of course a swift and miraculous recovery for little Bowen. Yes, it is all in Gods hands and I pray that it will be a sweet victory from our Father in Heaven!!!!

Sheila

Dear Matt and Sarah, May the God of all peace and comfort surround you with His strength and may He bring healing to Bowen so he may have a long, happy, healthy and joy-filled life. Phil.4:13, 19 are two verses to lay hold of as you walk through this refining fire. May the Lord be glorified in all this.

MARY

Renee

As soon as I heard Lisa on K-Love talking about your little boy, Bowen, I have been praying. Sarah, you are right God does have a plan for Bowen and your family! I have 3 precious boys of my own and I couldn’t imagine one of my little guys going through this. May God give you strength and may God be with Bowen as he takes every breath and every beat of his tiny heart!
Renee
Ashland, KY

seeing your beautiful little boy brought tears to my eyes and prayers to my lips… I am so sorry for all you are having to endure, keep clinging to God and know He will never let you or Bowen go. I will be praying for you all.

I am praying for you! I hope you find comfort in knowing that I am a 17 year old girl who also has (HLHS). I spent a lot of my first two years of life in Mott’s Children’s Hospital. You are lucky to be with the very best doctors and nurses. Life isn’t always easy for everyone but you will get through this if you just believe in yourself and believe in the doctors and nurses let God guide them. Somedays will be good and somedays will be bad but remember luckily Bowen will not remember any of what he is going through at such a very young age in his life. I had 4 open heart surgeries before I was two years old. I have no memories of any of my surgeries. My parents remember it very well, but luckily I do not. I love and live life to the fullest each and every day I am now a Sophmore at Concord Academy in Memphis, Tn. I do any and everything everybody else can do except sports but I watch my little sister Briattany who is also a Sophmore play her sports and cheer her on. I will keep praying daily for you guys and mainly Bowen if I can help or answer any questions yall would like to ask me feel free to e-mail me or Facebook me. Give Dr. Bovie and the nurses and doctors my love and know you guys are with the best in the world! Know that to take each day as a memory with pictures, and maybe writing in a journal or notebook and on your blog as well. God knows what is the very best support and healthy recovery for yall and especially for little Bowen.

Suzanne

Randy

And we know that in ALL things GOD works for the GOOD of those who love him, who have been called according to HIS purpose. (Romans 8:28). May the presence of the living God fill each of you and surround you fully. May the peace of god that trandscends all understanding guard your hearts (Especially Bowen’s) and minds in Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 4:7)

Julie

Don’t have the words to say but we know how it feels. Our daughter was born 3 1/2 months early relying on machines to do her breathing. Contracting a blood infection needing several transfusions we somehow knew God had a purpose. It hurt so much to see our baby with so many wires but the Lord Jesus Christ manifested himself through the pain and our tears, now almost 13 years later she is on a mission to serve HIM whole-heartedley. We are praying for Baby Bowen and your family.

Cindy

Jamithy

we are still praying and trusting God for healing in Bowen’s little body and for strenght, comfort and peace for you! We miss you guys and think of I Thes…”Never Stop Praying” and in James “the prayer of a righteous man brings about wonderful things”

I am sorry to hear of all this. I am praying for you all. I have an encourageing story to share with you. Me and my wife were missionaries in sudan for the last six years. our last year there we had the honor of taking care of this little boy and his sister. His name was Isaiah, and her name is Rose. He had HIV and was about two years old, and Rose is about nine now ten. There was a girl there name Kelsey who took care of Isaiah like he was her own but then she had to go back home so it fell to us to take care of the two of them. we had two boys of our own and had no choice but to take them to an orphanage in the area where they were taken very good care of. It was our hope to adopt the both of them but due to health complications we had to decide to come home early. shortly after our decision we got the news little Isaiah had died. we were broken. we are still broken. The point is that God is God and we are not. Little Isaiah is now with his creator and 100 percent healthy, he is no longer suffering from some one elses mistake. It is hard as it truly feels like i have lost a son but i know i will see him again. Litlle Bowen is in the hands of the Awsome, Mighty, Warrior, Loving, Gentle, Healer, Creator of the universe. His fate is certin, and it is one of love and care at the hands of his Maker, whatever the outcome. Feel blessed and loved. God is…..

Can’t stop thinking, talking and praying about Bowen. I will fall asleep praying and wake up praying for him and you all.

I long for the day when there isn’t a need for prayers for survival for our heart babies! Just prayers that they’ll grow up and make the right choices, know and serve the Lord and live a long and happy life! “Normal” prayers :-).

In praying for Bowen, God has laid it upon my heart to lift up children and parents alike- that none of us take life for granted and make each moment count. I will never understand why God chooses our innocent ones to go through these trials but He knows best and His will is going to be done. Sometimes, I just don’t like how He chooses to do it. 🙁

Sheryll

I can’t even begin to imagine the torid of emotions you are going through. He is such a beautiful and blessed little guy. To have so much love in his little life he is truly blessed. Little Bowen you and your family are in my prayers.

April Geyer

Heather

I am praying for your son. I saw a post via another blog and immediately spoke words of healing over Bowen. I know where you are, my son, Noah, was born with three heart defects almost five years ago. He is a miracle, a walking testimony, and has blessed our lives so much. Through divine and medical miracles, he is a healthy little boy with a heart of gold. God spoke these words to me as I lay praying down the hall from my son in the NICU, “I know you love him, but I love him more, he is in the palm of my hand, first and foremost he is MY son and I will take care of him.” Those words have comforted me over the past five years so many times, and I hope they do the same for you.

I heard about what is going on with you and your family through k-love, Lisa I think one of the morning crew prayed for you, and I am. I have seen you in concert in Tualitin, Oregon, (Rolling Hiills Community Church) awesome concert.. because of you guys I pledge with Mocha club. Praise God for you bless you and I will prey for you and your little bowen, with communion. Jessica

Belinda Woods

Take counsel. God hears your cry He knows the cause and the cure. .Your cries and prayers pass through the darkness, filters through the clouds, mingles with the starlight and finds its way to his heart on the path of a moonbeam. He has anguished over the cry of a hare choked in the noose of a snare, a sparrow tumbled from the nest of its mother, a child thrashing helplessly in a pond, and a son shedding his blood on a cross.
May his love and light surround you as he continues to hold Bowen in he palm of his hand.

Tina

Praise God for miracles, big and small! Cherish every moment with little Bowen…there will come a day when you show him pics of himself from today and you will all be amazed at how healthy and beautiful he has become. God is good!

Lynne West

Baby Bowen, as well as your family will be in my prayers. If it help my cousin had a baby girl twenty two years ago with a same problem. She had to have a few surgeries throughout her life, but she just graduated college last year and it doing great.

Dena

Kayla

I know all too well the feelings you are having. My son had emergency open heart surgery at 4 weeks old. It is a very scary thing and no matter how prepared you think you are, you can’t possibly be prepared enough for what you will see. Just remember God has little Bowen in His hands. It was this knowledge that got me and my husband through our sons surgery. I will continue praying for your precious little boy.

Thom Pinkston

Still praying for Bowen, Matt, and the whole family. As my preacher says, we are ‘prayin hard’.
May God continue to surround you with His grace, peace, and love, and may Jesus, the great Healer, touch Bowen’s heart and astound the doctors at a miraculous healing. May He surround your family with a hedge of protection, and comfort you through this time. He is still on the throne, and still in the business of answering prayers.
Thom, Jane, and Lauren

Cindy

Angee Brice

I’m sure little Bowen is singing in his mind…whatever your doing inside of me, it feels like chaos….God has a plan. I have met you and Sarah just a couple times at church just to tell you that I was praying for you and Bowen before he was born. Your family is gifted in just unspeakable ways and Bowen is part of that gift. With your music and the two of you being so open to talk about your marriage. These things all bring blessings to other people in uncountable ways. I believe that Bowen’s journey is affecting people and their walk and relation ship with Christ in ways that we can’t even fathom. I am sorry it has to be so hard for you and Sarah. God is with you and will get you all through this. I have an indescribable burden on my heart to pray for this child and your family like I have never felt before- this is truly and honor. My prayers will continue.

Christy Glass

Mary Lou Cowen

Praying for little Bowen, A word of encouagement God will do what He says he will do in His word. He will heal. I have a great nephew that was born at 5 1/2 months weighed 1lb7oz and 12 1/4 in long he will be 1 yr old on Nov the 5th, doing great crawling and trying to walk. Meaning he is doing great. The Drs said he would not live but Jesus said he would. Believe and trust in the one who can heal

Sir to say the least, I thank God for the testamony about your marriage, that led to your song Lead Me!!!! MY GOD!!! I’m not one for the radio because I rarely find heart felt pure word christian music, therefore I always played CD’s. I like to say God Divinely interfered one day during the month of Aug through now- My player in the truck is out wont play cd’s at all ,ugghh-now what Father you know I dont listen to radio nothings on i want to hear, so hear I go scanning thru the channels and the scan stopped at 89.9 KLOVE/ who is this talking,sharing about some tough times in his marriage? I listen closer and hear you describe my marriage, my husband- well, by this time Im all too ready to hear your song,and Sir may I say thank you for acting on what was asked of your wife ! I thank God for her not sitting by idle and numb to what she felt was not right for the two of you, in this act of saving and changing,I too am changing daily! Gods annointing rests wonderfully upon Sanctus Real- upon you sir and surely if God can use you your testamonies to heal my hurting broken heart for my marriage, SURELY HE SEES YOUR PRECIOUS BOWEN’S broken heart and has a Plan…. Keep Glorifying God sir , in your life, your marriage ,your songs ,and God will Glorify Himself through your heart called Bowen!! I love your family in Jesus Name and remember you asked God : To Lead you with Strong hands To stand up when they cant ………..GODS’ GOT YOUR FAMILYS’ BACK AND BOWEN’S HEART!!!!!!!!! PRAYING WITH THE FAMILY …… TAMARA BURTON (PURE HEARTS OF PRAYER) facebook

jo

I found out about baby Bowen when I was trying to find out more information on you song Lead Me,( which spoke to my heart) I am praying for you and your family. We had a baby girl born to a young couple in our church, her little was all messed up inside, the veins were all twisted, she has had 3 heart surgeries. She is now 2 and she is running all over the church laughing . We prayed for her through all the surgeries. We know that God loves Bowen and your family. and like in your song Lead Me, He will lead you through this time, and you will come out victories after the storm. God bless you as you go through this storm. Love in Christ jo

Joyce Hood

I just foud out about your situation and
want to let you know you all are in our
prayers.
Your faith is incredible and will see you
through along with your family and many
friends.
GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY…
Joyce and Jim Hood

Cindy

Just sending you all my love and prayers. I am remembering you all moment by moment and knowing that our all loving GOD is holding Bowen’s heart and all of your hearts in His strong hands. Bowen is obviously a fighter and I pray he will continue to get better. I know that you are aware of how many care and are trusting God with you for His perfect outcome.

amy stiner

I have a 4 yr old, joshua stiner, that will be doing his fontain operation on oct 11th. i just came across this and i think it is beautiful.

It’s a beautiful day up in heaven. Jesus is rounding up his tiniest angels, to go live on earth, and be born. One of the sweetest angels says to Jesus “I don’t want to leave, I like it here, and I will miss you”. He reassures the scared little angel that everything will be okay, and that he is just going for a visit. He is still not swayed on this idea.

So Jesus kneels down, and says, “How about if you leave half of your heart here with me and take the other half with you, will that be okay?” The angel smiles and says, “I guess that will work”. But the little angel is still a little scared. He asks, “Will I be okay with only half of my heart?” Jesus replies, “Of course you will. I have other angels there that will help out, and you will be fine.” Then Jesus gives the angel more details about his plan. He says “When you are born, your mommy will be scared, so you have to be strong, and when you feel weak just remember that I have the other half of your heart. Enjoy your time with your family, play and laugh every day, and when it’s time to come back to heaven, I will make your heart whole again. Always remember that you are not broken, just torn between two loves.”
we will be praying for bowen.

Janis

Shelby

I am always praying for you, Bowen and your whole family including the doctors to have wisdom to know how to treat baby Bowen. I have your family and Bowen on every prayer request list possible at my school and church even though i am only eleven. i go to a christian school and they always have an update ready to say if i don’t. Remember you are in the hands of an all knowing and almighty God he loves you and has an answer to any prayer you have.God loves u and your family, He has a plan. Remember! God can do miracles. God bless your family!

Ashley

The LORD led me to your site and to your little Bowen. I will not only pray for him, I’m requesting those I know to pray for him as well. GOD has a perfect plan for your life and HE will see it through according to HIS will and timing. Be patient, and wait on HIM. Remember GOD does not withhold any good thing from those HE loves. HE is in the midst of you and will see little Bowen and your family through this time in your life. Wait and see that the LORD is good, and HIS mercy endures forever!!!! Loved through Christ JESUS… Be blessed. A. McKinnon

Susan

May God continue to bless your family and shine the light for you to walk the path. He will watch over your new little one as well as all of you. Keep the faith and we will keep the prayers headed your way.

Anthony Sladkov

Matt and Sara Hammitt…. i just want to encourage you to hold on to God. in the past 10 years of our lives 17+ surgerys later… 4 of them are major heart procedures for me, my brother and my mom… twelve for our sister… and 1 for my dad we always saw God being faithful towards our family… even when my mom was so anxious at the time when my surgerys went longer than expected by us or doctors… God was there comforting us and holding our hands… and if we went throught that with his help i strongly belive that he will help you go through this.. through thousands of prayers lifted to his thrown….

DAndra

Janis

My prayers are with you! I am a nurse practitioner at a Childrens hospital in Chicago. I know what a difficult time you are going through and the exhaustion you must be feeling. Listen to your nurses, and get rest when ever you can. Even if it is just a 20 minute power nap! Take turns so that you can stay strong for Bowen! With Gods grace, he is already proving himself to be strong!
Remember Phillipians 4:13
I have the strength for everything, through Him who empowers me!

Hiya! Quick question that’s completely off topic. Do you know how to make your site mobile friendly?
My web site looks weird when browsing from my apple iphone.
I’m trying to find a template or plugin that might be able to correct this issue.